Former Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi is struggling with playing time at OM, sparking rumours of a potential return to the Premier League.

• Matteo Guendouzi is experiencing a difficult second season at OM, with reduced playing time and a shifted position.
• Guendouzi’s entourage minimises the concerns, stating that such situations are common in football clubs.
• There is speculation that Guendouzi may consider leaving OM this summer, with a potential return to the Premier League.

The once indispensable Matteo Guendouzi, former Arsenal player, is reportedly experiencing a difficult time at his current club, Olympique de Marseille (OM).

Now in his second season with OM, Guendouzi is finding it harder to secure playing time and is becoming increasingly frustrated with the situation.

Guendouzi’s shifted position and increased competition

Guendouzi, a 24-year-old French international midfielder, is under contract with OM until June 2025.

However, the talented player has been given fewer opportunities by OM’s coach, Igor Tudor, this season.

Additionally, Guendouzi faces stiff competition from Valentin Rongier and Jordan Veretout, making it even more challenging to secure his preferred position on the field.

Frustration over lack of playing time

As reported by La Provence, Guendouzi is particularly disappointed about not having played in OM’s recent matches against ESTAC (3-1) and OL (1-2).

Following the victory against OL at Groupama Stadium, Guendouzi discussed his concerns with OM football director Javier Ribalta.

Entourage downplays Guendouzi’s concerns

Guendouzi’s entourage, however, has attempted to minimise the situation, stating that such exchanges are a normal part of life at a football club.

OM president Pablo Longoria is expected to meet with Guendouzi to try and boost his morale for the remaining six games of the season.

Igor Tudor on Guendouzi

In response to questions regarding Guendouzi’s mood and his management of benched players, OM’s coach Igor Tudor stated during a press conference, “With Matteo I spoke a lot throughout the season. Sometimes it’s just to have conversations; other times it’s better to be silent.”

The Croatian coach, who was once a player himself, added, “I understand this situation. It’s hard for players to see that some train better and play more often. Some accept it better than others.”

He went on to acknowledge the long season and the various players involved, saying, “At the beginning, I didn’t have an easy group to manage, but today I have a serious group, great professionals. When you see our training, you realise that.”

Possible departure from OM and return to Premier League

There is speculation that Guendouzi may be considering a departure from OM this summer.

Guendouzi has been heavily linked with an Unai Emery reunion. The former Arsenal boss is a big Guendouzi fan, playing him 66 times before he was sacked.

Under Mikel Arteta, Guendouzi played just 12 times.