(Football news) Marseille have announced the departure of legendary goalkeeper Steve Mandanda, after the 37-year-old terminated his contract and moved across the country to sign with Rennes on a two-year deal. The French international leaves after making a record 612 appearances for Olympique Marseille, in a spell which began in 2008 and he briefly spent a year at Crystal Palace. During his time at Marseille he played a part in the league title win of 2010 as well as three Coupe de la Ligue wins.
The World Cup winner was still under contract for two years, but had lost his place under Jorge Sampaoli as the number one goalkeeper when they signed Spaniard Pau López last summer, with Mandanda largely being limited to cup ties this past season. Rennes meanwhile were on the lookout for a number one goalkeeper with Alfred Gomis potentially moving on after the former Dijon had failed to convince the board as an able replacement for Édouard Mendy’s after the Senegal international’s move to Chelsea .It is therefore time for the Marseille fans to say goodbye for the native of Kinshasa, who has spent over two periods (2007-2016 and 2017-2022), at Marseille and has achieved a club legend status at Vélodrome stadium. Before putting on the Rennes jersey and playing under Bruno Genesio, Steve Mandanda sent a long farewell message to the fans
“Marseillais, it is with a heavy heart and charged with emotions that I address you this evening to say goodbye. After 15 wonderful years spent fully living my passion by your side, the time has come for me to leave. A page is turning today, but each moment will remain forever engraved in my heart and in my memory. I leave proud.”
“Proud to have worn the Olympique de Marseille jersey for 15 years. OM is my home, my family, my favorite club, the club that allowed me to become the man I am today. Supporters, your boundless passion has always thrilled me. Your unconditional love for OM and football has only created unique and unforgettable atmospheres."
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