5th Super Eagles star in Olympique Marseille history backed to thrive in France

Former Super Eagles midfielder Wilson Oruma believes Tochukwu Nnadi has what it takes to succeed at Olympique Marseille, Afrik-Foot reports.

Despite applauding Nnadi’s move to France, Oruma has also warned that the young Nigerian must learn to better control his energy in the demanding environment of French football.

Marseille confirmed the signing of Nnadi from Belgian side Zulte Waregem in January for a fee reported to be around six million euros, a figure that makes him the most expensive Nigerian recruit in the club’s history.

The combative midfielder also becomes the fifth Nigerian to have worn the famous white shirt, following in the footsteps of Oruma himself, Taye Taiwo, Victor Agali and Joseph Yobo.

Eric Chelle was in France to watch Marseille & meet their Super Eagles’ new signing, Tochukwu Nnadi 🔥🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/qFqEmYyssD

— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) February 4, 2026

Nnadi, who made his Super Eagles debut at the AFCON in Morocco, arrives in Ligue 1 with a growing reputation for physical dominance, relentless running and a fearless approach to midfield battles. His profile has already generated excitement among Marseille supporters eager for intensity and drive in the centre of the pitch.

However, Oruma, who knows the pressures of the Stade Vélodrome better than most, insists raw power alone will not be enough.

𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐣𝐚 𝐧𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 – welcome h𝐎𝐌e Nnadi 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/ZzXQGcDrrt

— Olympique de Marseille (@OM_Officiel) February 6, 2026

Nnadi: Praised and warned by Super Eagles legend

Speaking to Africa Foot via Onze Mondial, Oruma highlighted both the strengths that made Nnadi such an attractive signing and the areas that could shape his future in France.

“He’s a hard-working player, admirable in his physical power and athleticism. He’s a young player with stamina who can cover several spaces on the field,” Oruma said.

The former Marseille midfielder also praised Nnadi’s technical contribution to the team’s build-up play.

“He possesses an aggression that allows him to win back a lot of balls. He has a good right foot that gives him the ability to restart play effectively and support attacking moves.”

Yet Oruma believes the step up to Ligue 1 will require smarter use of that aggression.

“He needs to improve his energy management. Certainly, he brings a certain intensity to his team’s game through repeated efforts, but he sometimes overdoes it with his over-commitment.”

Despite that warning, Oruma remains confident that the demanding atmosphere in Marseille will help the midfielder mature quickly.

“He’s a young player, and I think he’ll use the pressure in Marseille to develop his game. One thing is certain: Tochukwu will bring grit, freshness, and a carefree attitude to the Marseille midfield.”

Nnadi could be handed an early test this weekend when Marseille travel to face Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes.

Marseille currently sit joint third with Lyon on 39 points, while Lens are second with 46 and PSG lead the table on 48. Victory in Paris would announce Nnadi’s arrival on the biggest stage and also tighten the race at the top of Ligue 1.