Tim Weah’s Resurgence at Marseille: A Fresh Start in Ligue 1

omidbasir- Tim Weah transferred to Juventus in the summer of 2023, with the club investing over €10 million (£9 million/$12 million) to secure his services. Although his versatility was beneficial, allowing him to adapt to multiple positions, consistent starting opportunities were elusive.

In 2025, Weah seized the chance to return to Ligue 1, joining Stade Velodrome on an initial loan with an obligation to buy for approximately €18 million (£16 million/$21 million) in the upcoming transfer window.

Weah expressed his relief at leaving Juventus, where he struggled to feel comfortable and found motivation challenging. In a recent interview, he shared, “When I arrived here, they welcomed a player who was somewhat broken and lacking confidence. Getting up in the morning and attending training was difficult for me because things weren’t going well. They took a chance on me.”

Now feeling more at home, Weah has embraced his identity as a Marseille player, stating, “I feel a bit like a Marseillais,” thanks to the warmth of his new fan base. He is also thrilled to work under the intriguing Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi, who played a pivotal role in his decision to move.

The 25-year-old New York native recalled the moment De Zerbi reached out to him: “The coach really believed in me. He called me at four in the morning while I was in my pajamas on FaceTime. He was smoking and said, ‘Tim, you have to come here. You’ll see, this is your home.’ At the airport, I was received as if I were at home.”

Having made 28 appearances for Marseille, including a landmark match against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in the Champions League, Weah expressed his desire to remain at the club long-term.

Reflecting on his adaptation to life on the Mediterranean coast, Weah shared, “I put myself in my own bubble, but it’s also a thrill and an honor. Playing in a full stadium, with the fans cheering, is something special. There aren’t many stadiums like that in the world. I really want to succeed here.”

He reveled in the rivalry with other clubs, noting, “In France, all the other clubs and fans are against OM. We face opposition everywhere, and I appreciate this aspect of standing alone against everyone.”

Weah’s return to France also allows him to visit Paris regularly, where he began his career at the PSG academy. He humorously remarked, “Interestingly, I run into more OM supporters than PSG supporters in Paris. Whenever I go back to see friends, I meet OM fans. It’s incredible. We’re everywhere!”

He emphasized that Marseille was the only club with which he felt a strong connection despite interest from various teams across Europe, including some in the Premier League. “When Marseille called me, there was only one club for me. It’s perfect. There’s competition, and we know the stadium and the fans well.”

The decision has garnered support from figures back home, including USMNT legend Alexi Lalas, who stated, “I think this is a good move for Tim Weah. I believe he and his agent played this well to land in a place where he will have a good opportunity to play and where he feels comfortable.”

Weah has already made an impact, contributing three goals and four assists, and is determined to help Marseille secure a spot in the Champions League next season, with a challenging match against PSG on the horizon for De Zerbi’s team.