Nayef Aguerd has rejected suggestions that a physical problem was behind the collapse of his proposed transfer from Olympique de Marseille to Real Sociedad.
The Morocco defender returned to France after completing his medical examination in Spain, prompting speculation about why the move had not gone ahead. Aguerd said the medical tests were carried out without any incident and were approved by both clubs.
In a statement published on his Instagram account, the 30-year-old addressed the questions surrounding his situation and insisted that the issue was not related to his fitness.
The disagreement instead concerned the conditions under which he would return to full training and competitive readiness.
After discussions with the Real Sociedad manager, Aguerd was expected to follow a gradual programme designed to restore him to his full physical capabilities. However, the Spanish club’s coach wanted to be able to use him immediately.
That difference in expectations ultimately prevented the transfer from being completed, leading Aguerd to return to Olympique de Marseille rather than begin his next chapter in Spain.
Aguerd remains under contract with Olympique de Marseille until June 2030. His current market value is estimated at 15m euros by Transfermarkt, while the transfer window is still open and his situation could yet change.
According to exclusive information from Africafoot, Al Ittihad and Napoli are monitoring the defender’s circumstances. Those clubs may therefore provide possible alternatives if Aguerd’s future at Olympique de Marseille is reassessed before the close of the market.
For now, his return to Marseille has ended the immediate uncertainty over where he will continue his career, while his explanation has sought to counter the impression that an unsuccessful medical caused the failed move.
Real Sociedad are due to play their second La Liga match of the season against Real Betis shortly. The match is also being accompanied by pre-match betting prices from 1xBet, with Real Sociedad listed at 3.25 to win, a draw at 3.10 and Real Betis at 2.05.
Aguerd’s failed move has therefore centred on timing and his reintegration programme rather than an injury concern. The defender’s contract, his reported valuation and the interest from Al Ittihad and Napoli mean that his position could still develop while the transfer window remains open.
