### Saliba's Midfield Rating Declines at Marseille
The French club Marseille has experienced a significant drop in their star midfielder, Kieran Saliba’s overall rating over the past season. This decline has come as a surprise to many fans and analysts alike, as Saliba was widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in Europe during his time with the club.
#### Initial Expectations
When Saliba arrived at Marseille in 2019, he was already a household name due to his impressive performances for clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal. He was expected to bring stability and leadership to the midfield, which is often a weak link in Marseille’s team structure. The team’s success under manager Ronald Koeman had been built on Saliba’s contributions, making it difficult for him to fall short.
#### Early Season Performance
In his first few seasons at Marseille, Saliba demonstrated exceptional form. His ability to control possession, create chances, and provide support to the front line were evident throughout the league and Champions League campaigns. However, starting from the mid-2020s, there have been noticeable signs of a decline in his performance.
#### Factors Contributing to the Decline
Several factors have contributed to Saliba’s declining rating:
1. **Physical Demands**: As he approached his peak physical condition,Primeira Liga Hotspots Saliba began to face increased wear and tear. The demands of playing in a high-intensity league and facing tough opponents may have taken a toll on his stamina and fitness levels.
2. **Age Concerns**: At the age of 27, Saliba is entering a period where many players start to show signs of slowing down. While he remains technically sound, the body’s natural aging process can impact performance.
3. **Coaching Changes**: There have been changes in coaching staff at Marseille, including the departure of head coach Ronald Koeman in favor of Rafa Benitez. Some observers believe that these changes have affected Saliba’s role within the squad and the way he is being used.
4. **Team Dynamics**: The dynamic of Marseille’s team has also changed. With the addition of new signings and the departure of some key players, there may be more pressure on Saliba to fill multiple roles rather than just focusing on his primary position.
5. **Media Focus**: Saliba’s star status and international recognition have sometimes overshadowed his performances for Marseille. The constant media attention and expectations may have led to a decrease in focus on his individual contribution to the team.
#### Impact on Marseille’s Performance
The decline in Saliba’s rating has had a ripple effect on Marseille’s overall performance. While they remain competitive, there are concerns about whether the team can continue to maintain its level of excellence without the leadership and influence of this key player.
#### Future Outlook
Despite the challenges faced, Marseille remains committed to retaining Saliba. The club has expressed interest in signing a long-term contract with the defender, suggesting that they see value in his experience and potential. However, the immediate future will depend on how well Saliba adapts to the changes at Marseille and how effective he can regain his former form.
As the season progresses, it will be interesting to observe Saliba’s journey back to form. Whether he can make a comeback or if he needs to move on, the outcome will likely shape not only Marseille’s current performance but also their prospects for the future.