Azzedine Ounahi leaves Olympique de Marseille to join Panathinaikos Athens on loan with a buy option fixed at 25 million euros. At the end of the 2026-2027 season, OM will recover almost 6 million euros thanks to a 30% sell-on clause on any future profit. This transfer fits into the financial disengagement strategy of the struggling Phoca club.
Why is Ounahi leaving now?
The departure of the Moroccan international is explained by the heavy financial situation of Olympique de Marseille. The club closely monitors the movements of its former players to balance the accounts. Ounahi's transfer to Girona in 2025 had already brought in 6 million euros to the club, with a 30% resale on the profit. The new loan with a 25 million euro buy option follows the same logic of revenue generation.
What awaits Ounahi at Panathinaikos?
The 26-year-old player joins an ambitious Greek project. Panathinaikos, a major club in the Greek championship, offers Ounahi regular playing time before the next World Cup. His Ligue 1 experience and performances with the Atlas Lions make him a valuable reinforcement for the team coached by Rui Vitória. The player will bring creativity to the Athenian midfield.
Financial impact for OM
The Phoca club negotiated a 30% resale clause on any future profit involving Ounahi. If the player is sold definitively at the end of the 2026-2027 season, OM will recover almost 6 million euros on this deal. This amount is added to the revenues already generated by his previous transfer to Girona, demonstrating the club's amortization strategy on young talents.
Where does Ounahi fit into the Moroccan project?
Indispensable Moroccan international, Ounahi continues his preparation with the Atlas Lions for the next qualification phase. Regular playing time at Panathinaikos will allow him to maintain his form and be available for future fixtures with the national team. The player remains a key piece of the national team's tactical setup.
Summer 2026 transfer window bilan
Olympique de Marseille continues its summer departures to balance the squad. Several other players are subject to discussions to lighten the wage bill. Ounahi's departure fits into a series of movements aimed at restructuring the squad while generating substantial revenues for the club.
