Kelyann Bezahaf has made an early impression at Olympique de Marseille after starting against Troyes and completing the full match at right-back.
The young Algerian showed promise throughout the game, making purposeful movements on the flank and contributing to Marseille’s attacking play. His performance was also well received by several supporters of the club.
For a player at the beginning of his career, the opportunity offered more than valuable minutes on the pitch. It provided an indication of his personality, adaptability and ability to meet the physical and tactical demands of a club where competition for places requires a high level of preparation and discipline.
Africafoota asked Rabah Saadane, one of the most prominent figures in Algerian coaching, to assess Bezahaf’s potential. The former Algeria manager, who has extensive experience of football in Algeria, Africa and the Arab world, praised the defender’s qualities while also outlining the areas in which he must continue to develop.
Saadane guided Algeria to qualification for the 1986 World Cup in Mexico and returned to lead the Fennecs in 2004, when the national side reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia. He also managed Raja Club Athletic during the 1988/89 season and won several continental and Arab honours, including the Arab Club Championship with ES Setif in the 2007/08 season.
Saadane highlights Bezahaf’s attacking instincts
Saadane described Bezahaf as an active full-back who is not restricted to defensive duties. He highlighted the youngster’s mobility on the right and his willingness to contribute when Marseille have possession.
The modern full-back must provide more than protection for his side of the pitch, according to Saadane. By carrying the ball forward and exploiting available space, Bezahaf can help create numerical advantages in attacking areas, although his movements must be coordinated with those of the winger and midfielders.
The timing of his forward runs and his positioning will be especially important. He must find ways to support attacks without undermining the team’s defensive balance, while also understanding how his movements fit into the collective structure.
Technically, Bezahaf has shown an ability to take on opponents one-on-one, either to get beyond them or to create room for crosses into the penalty area. His composure when under pressure is another asset, giving him more options when deciding how to move Marseille up the pitch.
Competition at Marseille
The defender’s physical capacity was also evident in his ability to play the entire match against Troyes. A right-back is required to cover significant distances, repeat high-intensity runs and maintain concentration in both phases until the final whistle.
Competition for the position at Olympique de Marseille will provide a significant test. His start against Troyes is an encouraging foundation, but he will need to produce consistently if he is to establish himself in the rotation and convince the coaching staff.
Saadane’s assessment underlines the importance of continuity. Technical and physical ability must be supported by discipline, consistency and a sustained desire to improve. Bezahaf now has the opportunity to turn his promising first appearance into regular performances and gradually strengthen his position within Marseille’s plans.
