PROFILE | Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Marseille – a match made in heaven
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Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, one of Marseille’s marquee summer signings, has won over the Marseille fanbase early into his Olympien career, by the seamlessness of his integration, showcasing his leadership and tactical acumen. Joining from Tottenham in July 2024, Højbjerg brought his extensive Premier League experience to bolster OM's midfield under coach Roberto De Zerbi. The Danish international has emerged as a pivotal figure, not just for his commanding on-field performances but also for his off-field leadership, serving as a bridge between the coach and players due to his multilingual skills, and acting as part of the core leadership group alongside captain Leonardo Balerdi.
Højbjerg operates as a central figure in De Zerbi’s fluid midfield, excelling in a box-to-box role. He has consistently delivered strong performances, particularly in high-stakes matches, such as the 2-1 victory against Monaco and the crucial 0-2 away win over Saint-Étienne as Les Phocéens sit in a pretty second place heading into the end of 2024. His ability to control the tempo, recover possession, and distribute the ball has earned him a more than credible season average rating of 7.4 in Ligue 1, a testament to his reliability and consistency. Defensively, he leads in interceptions and tackles per game, ensuring Marseille's midfield remains resilient under pressure. It is a style of play and impact heavily appreciated by Roberto De Zerbi and bolstered by the surprise summer addition of France international Adrien Rabiot and returning former captain Valentin Rongier, helping Marseille build a formidable and stable three-man midfield.
Hojbjerg leads his teammates to Denmark
Known for his calm demeanour, Højbjerg has taken it upon himself to be the leader during tense situations. Additionally, he has assumed captaincy duties on occasions, further reflecting his growing stature within the squad. His arrival has had a galvanising effect on the team dynamic. Players have spoken about their deep respect for the former Tottenham man, noted for his professionalism and his emphasis on collective responsibility. His leadership has extended beyond match days as Roberto De Zerbi and captain Balerdi have opted for team-building activities to further improve the cohesion, the latest edition taking place in Højbjerg's home town of Copenhagen.
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg's first season at Marseille has reinforced his reputation as an elite midfielder with a commanding presence. His influence has been instrumental in OM's domestic resurgence, as they aim for European success. Højbjerg has undoubtedly become a cornerstone of Marseille's ambitions in 2024 and beyond.
