Rongier Opens Up on 'Disappointing' Marseille Departure
Valentin Rongier has opened up about his departure from Olympique de Marseille, describing a lack of respect from the club's hierarchy during his summer move to Stade Rennais. The 29-year-old midfielder, who spent six years at Marseille and served as captain, joined Rennes in a permanent deal during the 2024 summer transfer window, with the fee remaining undisclosed.
In an interview with Le Média Carré, the French international expressed his disappointment with his exit from the Stade Vélodrome. Rongier, who made over 200 appearances for Marseille after joining from Nantes in 2017, felt the club's final contract offer was both insufficient and presented too late. "I was a little disappointed and sad with how it ended," Rongier said, according to the interview. "I gave six years to the club, I gave everything, I never spoke out of turn, and I represented the club's values. So, I was a bit disappointed."
Rongier revealed that while then-manager Roberto De Zerbi was keen to keep him and pushed for a contract extension, the club's final contract proposal was, in his view, not commensurate with his service and was presented at the last moment. "I think I deserved a little better," he stated. The 29-year-old, who made 33 appearances in all competitions last season, was a consistent performer in Marseille's midfield, known for his tenacity and leadership, having worn the captain's armband on numerous occasions.
The move to Rennes, a direct Ligue 1 rival, was finalized late in the 2025 summer transfer window. The transfer ends a significant chapter in Rongier's career, who was a mainstay in Marseille's midfield and a fan favorite for his committed displays. His departure marks the end of a six-year tenure during which he became a central figure both on and off the pitch.
For Marseille, the loss of a senior figure and club captain represents a significant change in the dressing room, while Rennes has acquired a seasoned, experienced midfielder with proven leadership qualities. Rongier's comments highlight the sometimes harsh business realities of modern football, where long-serving players can feel undervalued in the end. His move to Rennes offers him a fresh start in a new project, while Marseille must now fill the void left by a player who had become a symbol of stability and commitment at the club.
