The spotlight has once again fallen on Marseille sporting director Medhi Benatia as questions mount over his winter recruitment strategy, particularly the signings of highly rated midfielders Ethan Nwaneri and Tochukwu Nnadi, according to French sports daily L'Equipe, via foot01.

While Super Eagles star Nnadi was acquired on a four-and-a-half-year deal from SV Zulte Waregem, Nwaneri was loaned in from Arsenal.

 Nwaneri, the youngest player in history to feature in the English Premier League, and Nnadi, who has tipped to break into the Super Eagles starting XI in the future,  arrived with considerable promise but have struggled to establish themselves under Marseille boss Habib Beye.

The Nigeria international has logged 36 minutes across four Ligue 1 games since Habib Beye's appointment, while Nwaneri's role has diminished, with the Arsenal loanee yet to make a start despite featuring in six matches. 

Benatia is facing scrutiny over the signings of Nwaneri and Tochukwu Nnadi, with both midfielders yet to make a tangible impact, having spent the majority of their time on the bench.

Looking ahead to next season, Marseile are expected to make squad adjustments in midfield and there is a possibility of Nnadi featuring more prominently.

However, Nwaneri's loan deal with Marseille has no option to buy, meaning the Hale End Academy graduate will return to Arsenal at the end of the season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel