Kelyann Bezahaf made a strong first impression for Olympique de Marseille in his first start against Troyes, completing the entire match at right-back and earning praise from former Algeria manager Rabah Saadane.
The young Algerian defender showed promise on the right side, contributing both to Marseille’s defensive work and their attacking moves. His performance also won encouragement from several supporters of the club.
For a player at the beginning of his career, such an opportunity provides more than valuable playing time. It also offers an indication of his character, 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.
Africafoot asked Saadane, one of the most prominent figures in Algerian coaching, to assess Bezahaf’s potential, technical qualities and prospects at Olympique de Marseille.
Saadane highlights Bezahaf’s attacking potential
Saadane’s assessment is informed by extensive experience in Algerian, African and Arab football. He led Algeria to qualification for the 1986 World Cup in Mexico before returning as national team manager in 2004, when the Fennecs reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.
He also coached Raja Club Athletic during the 1988/89 season and won several continental and Arab honours, including the Arab Club Championship with ES Setif during the 2007/08 season.
The former Algeria manager believes Bezahaf already displays several characteristics associated with the modern full-back.
“Bezahaf is an active full-back who is not limited to his defensive duties,” Saadane said.
He pointed to the youngster’s movement on the right flank and his willingness to support attacks. In the modern game, a full-back is expected not only to protect the side of the pitch but also to provide additional options when a team builds forward.
The ability to carry the ball into space can create numerical advantages in attacking areas, although those movements must be coordinated with the winger and midfielders. Timing and positioning are equally important if a player is to contribute offensively without exposing his team defensively.
Physical development remains important
Technically, Bezahaf is capable of taking on opponents one-on-one, either to get beyond them or to create the room needed to deliver crosses into the penalty area. His control when under pressure gives him more options and helps him move Marseille towards the opposition half.
Saadane considers those qualities a solid foundation, but believes the teenager must continue refining his game, particularly when deciding whether to push forward or preserve the team’s defensive structure.
Completing the match against Troyes also demonstrated Bezahaf’s ability to maintain the required intensity. Right-backs are expected to cover significant distances, repeat their runs and remain focused throughout the 90 minutes.
At Marseille, competition for the position will provide a demanding test. The start against Troyes gives Bezahaf an initial platform, but regular performances will be required if he is to establish himself in the rotation and convince the coaching staff.
Marseille will soon play Olympiakos in their second match of the league phase of the Europa League. The listed 1xbet odds are 2.27 for a Marseille win, 3.63 for a draw and 3.17 for an Olympiakos victory.