Nayef Aguerd is finally getting closer to a return to competition. Two days before the match against Strasbourg on Friday, August 21, for the first day of Ligue 1, Bruno Genesio confirmed that the Moroccan international defender could be selected again. “Nayef Aguerd is operational. We will see how long he can play,” specified the coach of Olympique de Marseille. His presence in the squad seems possible, although a starting position remains uncertain.
This green light marks an important step in the long recovery of the Atlas Lion. He underwent surgery on March 12 to treat a persistent pubalgia and has followed several months of rehabilitation. This injury had notably forced him to withdraw from the 2026 World Cup with Morocco. His return should now be gradual to allow him to regain his rhythm without taking risks.
The clarification provided by Genesio also helps to better understand the recent failure of his transfer to Real Sociedad. Aguerd assured that his medical visit had been approved by both clubs. The disagreement actually concerned his recovery protocol: the Moroccan wanted to benefit from a gradual increase in intensity, while the coach of the Basque club wanted to rely on him immediately.
Despite this episode, Genesio assures that his player remains focused on the field and determined to show a different side. His return comes at a crucial time as Leonardo Balerdi remains uncertain due to a calf injury, while Geoffrey Kondogbia has been rested. Aguerd could thus quickly regain an important place in the Marseille defense, although his playing time will be monitored during the first matches.
