Angel Gomes has reportedly turned down Tottenham Hotspur to join Marseille, adding another dimension to the growing prestige of France's Ligue 1 following PSG's Champions League victory.
"Agreement in principle between Angel Gomes and Olympique de Marseille for a three-year contract," – reported Fabrice Hawkins about the 24-year-old midfielder's decision.
The former Manchester United academy product, currently playing for Lille, has apparently rejected approaches from both Spurs and West Ham United in favor of staying in France. His contract choice comes at an interesting time – just after Paris Saint-Germain demolished Inter Milan 5-0 to claim their first ever Champions League trophy.
For years, Ligue 1 has carried the unflattering nickname of being a "farmers league" due to its perceived lower quality compared to other European competitions. But that perception might be changing. PSG's dominant European campaign saw them knock out English champions Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal on their way to continental glory.
Gomes won't be the only former Manchester United player at the Stade Vélodrome. Last summer, Mason Greenwood made the same journey, joining Marseille for £26.6 million. The 23-year-old forward has since flourished, scoring 21 goals and providing five assists last season – just one assist fewer than Ballon d'Or favorite Ousmane Dembele.
By the way, Gomes' familiarity with French football likely played a role in his decision. After leaving United in 2020 following just 10 first-team appearances, he joined Lille and has become a regular in their midfield after a loan spell at Portuguese side Boavista.
Marseille's qualification for the Champions League and the appointment of manager De Zerbi reportedly influenced Gomes' decision to choose the southern French club over Premier League options.
Is this another sign that Ligue 1 is finally shedding its unflattering reputation?
