Olympique de Marseille is facing internal friction over the development and contract status of academy talents Milan Leccese and Antoine Valero, according to sports media reports. Despite operating with a limited squad under coach Bruno Génésio, the club has yet to integrate the two French Under-19 internationals into the senior professional setup, sparking questions about their long-term futures at the Stade Vélodrome.
Contract Standoff and Transfer Interest Surround Milan Leccese
Milan Leccese, a central midfielder currently playing on a trainee contract, has grown increasingly frustrated with his lack of opportunities in Marseille’s senior squad. According to Foot Mercato, his situation has generated internal tension as he watches peers from his national youth selection secure first-team minutes elsewhere. The midfielder’s strong performances for the youth teams drew late-window interest from Stade Brestois during the summer transfer market. However, sporting leadership—specifically Grégory Lorenzi—blocked a potential exit, refusing to sanction a departure for the young prospect.
Antoine Valero Demands Strict Professional Guarantees
The situation regarding 18-year-old forward Antoine Valero has likewise grown complex. Coming off a prolific season that yielded 23 goals across all competitions, Valero initially showed enthusiasm about inking his first professional terms with Marseille. The club’s management has thus far rejected those specific conditions, stalling negotiations.
❗️Chaud pour signer son premier contrat pro à l’OM, Antoine Valero (18 ans) aurait changé de fusil d’épaule.
— Massilia Zone (@MassiliaZone) September 23, 2026
Il exige désormais des garanties sportives strictes quant à sa présence dans le groupe pro pour signer.
La direction refuse catégoriquement cette condition. Les… pic.twitter.com/wzxyzHcj6r
Squad Limitations and the Upcoming Post-International Break Test
Bruno Génésio has expressed ongoing frustration regarding squad depth since the summer transfer window closed. With several senior departures offset by zero incoming transfers, academy products represent the most immediate internal resource to bolster the squad. Yet, both Leccese and Valero remain sidelined from the senior group.
As domestic competition resumes following the international break, the club faces a decisive period. Integrating Leccese and Valero could provide Génésio with much-needed tactical options while simultaneously convincing the two teenage internationals to commit their developmental years to Marseille.
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