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Valentin Rongier Says Marseille Showed ‘Lack of Respect’ in Exit Handling

His interview highlights delayed talks he blames for his exit, reflecting a sport that sidelines the human element.

Overview

  • Rongier, speaking in a new interview relayed by French outlets, said Marseille’s leadership left him feeling disrespected over how his end-of-stay talks were handled after six seasons.
  • He said coach Roberto De Zerbi told him he pushed for an extension after signing Ismaël Bennacer in January 2025, but the club’s offer arrived late and below what he expected.
  • Rongier, who made 196 appearances and wore the captain’s armband at OM, said he did not feel the president or sporting director were eager to keep him.
  • He left for Stade Rennais in the summer of 2025, where he is now captain, with Foot Mercato reporting a €5 million fee, and no on‑record response from OM’s hierarchy was cited in the coverage.
  • He also described being burglarized three times in Marseille and hiring round‑the‑clock security for his family before a team trip, saying such risks fuel player anxiety even beyond that city.