Ivorian midfielder Hamed Junior Traoré hails move to Olympique de Marseille and reunion with De Zerbi

Hamed Junior Traoré has spoken of his delight after completing his move toe  Olympique de Marseille, describing the French giants as a “great club” and highlighting the influence of head coach Roberto De Zerbi in his decision to join.

The Ivorian midfielder, who officially sealed his arrival at the Stade Vélodrome this week, made clear that he is eager to make an immediate impact in a team with lofty ambitions.

Speaking after putting pen to paper, Traoré underlined both his excitement and determination to contribute to OM’s success.

OM is a great club that wanted me. I’m happy to be here and I hope to help the team achieve its goals. Finding De Zerbi was a big factor in my decision; he’s a great coach, the 24-year-old explained.

For Marseille, the capture of Traoré represents more than just a reinforcement in midfield.

His arrival is seen as part of the club’s wider project under De Zerbi, whose philosophy and tactical vision have already begun shaping the side.

The coach’s presence proved decisive for Traoré, who previously worked with him and now relishes the chance to reunite.

The player’s familiarity with De Zerbi’s methods is expected to ease his transition into the squad.

This bond could allow him to adapt faster to the demands of Ligue 1 and to the expectations of a passionate Marseille fan base.

Traoré arrives at a pivotal moment for OM, as the club seeks to reassert itself among the domestic elite while also competing in Europe.

The Ivorian’s creativity, vision, and technical quality add depth to the midfield and provide De Zerbi with an additional option in shaping a side capable of challenging on multiple fronts.

The midfielder also brings valuable experience from his previous campaigns in Italy and England, where he developed into a versatile player able to operate in different roles across the middle of the pitch.

His ability to link play and influence attacking moves is likely to be central to Marseille’s game plan in the months ahead.

While Traoré acknowledged the weight of expectation that comes with playing for OM, he insisted that both the club’s ambition and his trust in De Zerbi made the choice straightforward.

His words suggest a footballer not only ready for the challenge but also determined to thrive in the unique atmosphere of the Vélodrome.

With his signing complete, Marseille supporters will now look forward to seeing whether Traoré’s conviction and connection with his coach can translate into performances that drive the team toward its objectives this season.