Tochukuwu Nnadi, [Photo Credit/ Imago].
Super Eagles midfielder, Tochukwu Nnadi, recently joined Olympique Marseille from Zulte Waregem…
Olympique Marseille have released fresh training footage ahead of their Ligue 1 clash with Stade Brestois 29, Soccernet.ng reports.
Once again, Super Eagles midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi is nowhere to be seen in the video.
The club’s official video shows an intense session at the training centre, featuring drills, passing routines, shooting practice and goalkeeper work.
Several first-team regulars took part, but the Nigerian midfielder did not appear in any of the frames, which extended his absence from both matchday squads and group sessions since arriving in France earlier this month.
#SB29OM #TrainingSession by @randstad_france pic.twitter.com/eaap0en9DH
— Olympique de Marseille (@OM_Officiel) February 18, 2026
Tochukwu Nnadi: Integration of Super Eagles star
The 22-year-old joined Marseille from Zulte Waregem on 2 February in a deal reported to be worth around €6 million. Despite the investment, he has yet to make his debut or even feature on a matchday list.
There has been no official confirmation of an injury. Instead, early reports after his arrival indicated he was placed on an individual conditioning programme to build match fitness and adapt to the demands of Ligue 1.
His continued absence from full training suggests the club may still be managing his integration rather than dealing with a physical setback.
Marseille’s midfield logjam
Marseille’s current midfield setup has also limited opportunities for rotation. Pierre-Emile Højbjerg remains first choice in Nnadi’s position, while Geoffrey Kondogbia is the main alternative and has himself spent recent matches on the bench.
The Højbjerg–Quentin Timber partnership has been preferred for stability, which leaves little room for immediate experimentation.
Off the pitch, the club has been gripped by turbulence. Coach Roberto De Zerbi was dismissed barely days after Nnadi’s signing, sporting director Mehdi Benatia resigned, and uncertainty continues over the next permanent manager. Those disruptions have shifted focus toward short-term results rather than gradual squad integration.
Nnadi’s continued absence is beginning to draw attention among supporters, with Marseille preparing for their Brest test under mounting pressure.
However, if he remains sidelined in the coming weeks, questions about his role and readiness will only grow louder.
Ayomide Oguntimehin
Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Chief Editor at Soccernet.ng. He has interviewed Super Eagles stars like William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ademola Lookman, and is known for breaking major transfer stories.
Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, and Milan News24. He holds a Master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X (formerly Twitter): @ayo_oguntimehin
