The Chilean forward has sounded alarms in France by delaying a contract extension, with his current deal set to expire in June.
Alexis Sanchez has been a driving force for Olympique de Marseille, becoming a central figure in the plan laid out by head coach Igor Tudor. His goals have helped keep Marseille competitive across Ligue 1, the Champions League, and the French Cup, as the club balances multiple commitments at La Canebière. He has appeared in 34 matches for OM and contributed 16 goals, showcasing his continued influence across domestic and European campaigns.
Before the March FIFA window, the Tocopilla native delivered a standout performance with a brace in World Cup style fixtures, underscoring Marseille’s strength at Stade Auguste-Delaune II. The double halted Will Still’s club after a 19-match unbeaten run and tightened the gap with Paris Saint-Germain in the title race following PSG’s loss to Rennes. Sanchez has netted 12 league goals in 25 appearances, sparking comparisons with Lionel Messi as Marseille pursues the title race in the French capital.
Amid the spotlight, Marseille’s leadership grew anxious as the contract edge approached. Reports from L’Equipe suggested talks on an extension had not yet begun, leaving the club wary that their principal attacking asset could depart without new negotiations in place.
The tension increased after Sanchez, who had recently spoken following the elimination of a cup competition by a team from a lower division, expressed his desire to stay with the club. He also hinted that he would move on if his personal goals could not be fulfilled following his time with Inter Milan.
“I am here for the season. I could leave, or I could stay. But I did not come to Marseille for a holiday. I did not come to sunbathe. I want to stay, but I want to win. I am not here to settle for fourth or third, not even second to reach Champions League status; I want to play from day one, to become champion and win titles,” said the former Cobreloa youth product. “I have won everywhere I have been, so the club’s ambition and where we finish will determine Champions League involvement. My future depends on all of this.”
Alexis’ stats with Les Phocéens – All his goals with OM
The 34-year-old arrived in Marseille last August 10 on a one-year contract with the option for another season. In other words, he could leave on a free transfer in June if no agreement is reached. Former midfielder Jerome Rothen, a 2003 Confederations Cup champion with PSG, raised questions about Sanchez’s long-term commitment. “Sanchez is very attached to the club, but with his career you shouldn’t get too emotionally attached. He can be mercenary, moving where the wind blows,” Rothen commented on RMC as a broadcaster.
I would add that his recent statements after the cup exit put pressure on leadership, given Marseille has long shown strong ambition since Pablo Longoria took charge. If the club can offer stronger support behind him, enabling more goals and chances, his stay remains possible.
The former Manchester United forward began his Marseille spell last year after leaving Inter Milan in June 2023. During his time with the Nerazzurri, he appeared 109 times, started 40 matches, and contributed 20 goals with 18 assists across all competitions.
HIS STATISTICS IN LIGUE 1:
THEIR NUMBERS IN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE:
IN THE FRENCH CUP:
La Roja’s top scorer earns roughly 3 million euros per season, a figure well below the £7 million he reportedly earned under previous deals. The Chilean ranks as the club’s fourth-highest earner, behind players such as Eric Bailly, Matteo Guendouzi, and Azzedine Ounahi.
Attribution: Goal