Olympique de Marseille President Stephane Richard Assesses Silent Transfer Window

Olympique de Marseille president Stephane Richard has candidly assessed the club's unprecedented summer transfer window, admitting that financial targets regarding the wage bill were not fully met despite extensive departures. Speaking candidly about the club's rigorous financial constraints, Richard outlined the immense difficulties faced by the French powerhouse.

"We have not reached the targets if we reason in terms of the wage bill for the 2026-2027 season, we are not there but we did the maximum according to the market," Richard stated during a media appearance, addressing the silent window.

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The club's strict limitations were heavily enforced by the DNCG, leaving OM unable to register new players without clearing out substantial squad depth. Numerous key figures departed to generate revenue and slash expenditures, creating a unique summer profile.

"The braking imposed on us by the DNCG is so brutal that it would have been necessary to sell almost the entire team before being able to start recruiting," Richard added, highlighting the depth of the financial crisis he encountered upon taking office.

Marseille Achieves Massive Wage Reductions Amid Ongoing Talks

Despite falling short of ideal goals, Olympique de Marseille has managed to slash its overall wage structure by a historic margin under the new leadership. President Stephane Richard emphasized the unprecedented scale of cost-cutting measures implemented during the turbulent summer months.

"Between last season's wage bill and today's, we are looking at a reduction of 30 to 35 percent, which is gigantic and unprecedented in the history of the club," Richard explained regarding the club's financial stabilization efforts.

To build on these savings without forcing further squad exits, club executives have entered delicate negotiations with several high-earning players regarding contract adjustments and reduced annual salary packages.

"Players have also agreed to make efforts, accepting contract extensions while reducing the annual cost of their salary, which will concern three or four players among the highest earners," Richard concluded with cautious optimism.