Olivier Ntcham makes Barcelona and Real Madrid claim after leaving Celtic
Olivier Ntcham recently joined Marseille on loan from Celtic till the end of the season, with an option to make the deal permanent at the end of the campaign. And it looks like he is more than happy with the move although it has created a storm of controversy at the club involving Andre Villas-Boas and the board.
The 25-year-old was always regarded as one of the most technically gifted players at Parkhead but never quite managed to fulfil his potential. And after not playing much this season, the club did well to find him a new home.
Once rated at £13 million, it is hard not to feel that the reported £4.5-5.5 million, which Marseille will need to pay in order to acquire his services on permanent basis, is a bit on the low end. But at the end of the day, that will go a long way in the club’s rebuilding process.
On the other hand, Ntcham seems delighted to have joined Marseille despite having grown up as a PSG supporter. In fact, he went as far as to comparing the pull of the French side to that of FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, as reported by The Scotsman:
"“No matter what the situation, good or bad, you don’t say no to Marseille.“It’s like if Barça or Real (Madrid) call you – you don’t say no.“For me, as a Frenchman, Marseille are still Marseille.”"
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Letting Ntcham leave was the right move for Celtic
It is undeniable that Ntcham has a lot of potential. Unfortunately, for one reason or the other, he was not able to show the extent of that in the Hoops. But hopefully, now that he is back in France, he can do that.
It has always felt like he wanted to move away from Parkhead ever since the departure of Brendan Rodgers. And to be honest, he did play his best football under the former Celtic manager.
It will be interesting to see how he does at Marseille. While his move has raised a lot of controversy, he seems unbothered and ready to perform when given the chance, which is a great attitude to have indeed.
Ntcham did have his moments for Celtic. And all we can do is wish him the best of luck going forward.