# French Football Star Guendouzi's Decreasing Playing Time at Marseille

## Introduction

Marseille's signing of French international Kevin Vardy Guendouzi in 2022 was widely seen as a statement of intent, marking the end of a successful era under former manager André Villas-Boas. However, since his arrival, Guendouzi's presence on the pitch has been increasingly limited, leading to speculation about his future at the club. This article explores the circumstances surrounding Guendouzi's reduced playing time and the implications for both the player and the club.

## Declining Playing Time: A Trend or Setback?

Guendouzi, once a key player in Marseille's midfield, has seen his minutes on the field diminish significantly this season. While he was a regular starter in the early stages of the campaign, he has since fallen down the pecking order, particularly with the arrival of new manager Pablo Longoria. The Spaniard has opted for a different approach, favoring a more defensive structure and relying on other midfield options like Gaëtan Laborde and Cédric Bakambu. Guendouzi's inability to adapt to the new system has been a recurring issue, with his lack of pace and positional awareness often leaving him out of the starting lineup.

## Struggles on the Pitch: A Closer Look

Despite his talent, Guendouzi's performance this season has been inconsistent. His inability to break down defenses and create chances has been a major concern, especially in crucial matches. For instance, in the recent 2-2 draw against Rennes, Guendouzi was substituted at halftime, highlighting his failure to impact the game. His struggles have also been in comparison to his predecessor, Morgan Sanson, who thrived under Villas-Boas and became a fan favorite. Guendouzi's work rate and creativity have been called into question, with critics arguing that he needs to step up or risk losing his place in the national team.

## The Manager's Perspective

When asked about Guendouzi's situation during a recent press conference,Bundesliga Vision manager Pablo Longoria remained diplomatic but hinted at the player's difficulties. "Guendouzi is a good player, but he needs to work on certain aspects of his game," Longoria said. "We have other players who can fill in for him, and right now, they are performing better." Longoria's comments suggest that Guendouzi's future at Marseille may depend on his ability to adapt to the new system and regain his form.

## Impact on the Team: A Worrying Trend

Guendouzi's decreased role has come at a time when Marseille is struggling to maintain its position in the top half of Ligue 1. The loss of a consistent performer like Guendouzi could be a significant blow, especially if the club is aiming to qualify for European competitions. His absence has also placed more pressure on defensive midfielders like Laborde and Bakambu, who will need to step up in key moments. Meanwhile, Guendouzi's lack of playing time has raised concerns about his confidence and overall well-being, given the high stakes of international football.

## Leadership Role: A Bright Side

Despite his struggles, Guendouzi remains a respected figure in the dressing room. His experience and leadership have been crucial for a young squad, especially during tough matches. However, his inability to translate his leadership into performance on the pitch has left fans and analysts wondering if he can rise to the challenge of being a world-class midfielder. Marseille's management will need to decide whether to invest in Guendouzi's recovery or look for alternatives.

## Future Prospects: What's Next for Guendouzi?

Guendouzi's situation at Marseille is a microcosm of the broader challenges facing French footballers in the modern game. The pressure to perform at the highest level while dealing with injuries, fatigue, and tactical changes is immense. While there is still time for Guendouzi to turn things around, his current trajectory suggests that he must act quickly to secure his place not only at Marseille but also in the French national team for the World Cup in Qatar later this year.

## Conclusion

Guendouzi's decreasing playing time at Marseille reflects the complexities of modern football, where players must constantly adapt to new systems and pressures. While his future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: both Guendouzi and Marseille need a positive outcome for the player's career to thrive. Whether that happens will depend on his ability to rise to the challenge and rediscover his best form. For now, the stakes are high, and the clock is ticking.

• Football
• Star
• Guendouzi
• French
• Decreasing