Jordan Veretout was always a dependable figure for the clubs he operated at. After signing for Les Olympiens in 2022, the Frenchman became just that at the Stade Vélodrome. During his first season for Marseille, he featured in every match in Ligue 1 making 38 appearances and scoring three goals whilst registering four assists.
In his second season back in France playing for OM, the midfielder was not as readily available as in his first season at the club but that didn’t stop him from playing a largely important role. Although Les Phocéens were unable to qualify for the UEFA Champions League at the start of the 2023/24 season, this was coupled with a successful run to the semi-finals of the Europa League. Veretout featured in every game leading up to the penultimate stage of the competition and scored three goals during their run to the semi-finals.
Despite a positive run in European competition, domestic form was found wanting at Marseille. With three managers taking their place in the dugout across the season and eighth place finish in Ligue 1, the club were looking for a new influence and the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi brought about change in the dressing room.
Veretout an ever present alongside Tolisso
The former Brighton manager is known for his own way of doing things and that led to the untenability of several players due to their unsuitability to the Italian’s playing style. Veretout was included in this group of players and forced to find pastures new. However, with the transfer window closed and the 31-year-old still an OM player, that looked unlikely. Until, Lyon utilised the joker transfer window rule and completed a deal to sign the former Aston Villa midfielder.
Since arriving at the Groupama stadium, the midfielder has continued the trend of being a reliable and consistent performer. He has started all but two of the 12 league games he has been available for and formed a positive understanding in the middle of the park with Corentin Tolisso. Both experienced, the pair have been able to interchange roles in midfield and provide a platform for Malick Fofana and Rayan Cherki to be afforded more freedom ahead of them.
The pair have both operated in midfield together during a run that saw Les Gones embark upon a nine-match unbeaten run at the end of the year. Veretout’s importance cannot be understated regardless of the club he plays for.
