Ngapandouetnbu impresses in Ligue 2 and OM keeps an option to bring him back

Simon Ngapandouetnbu left Olympique de Marseille only a few months ago, but his name is already back in discussions at the Marseille club. The 23-year-old Cameroonian goalkeeper joined Montpellier on a free transfer this summer and has conceded just five goals in nine Ligue 2 matches, commanding the league’s best defence.

When he departed, OM took care to negotiate a buyback clause with MHSC. A precaution that makes full sense given the current performances of the former Marseille third-choice goalkeeper. According to La Provence, he would be among the options being studied by OM’s management to strengthen the goalkeeper position in summer 2026.

Because there is no urgency for now. Under DNCG constraints for several months, OM did not sign any players in the last summer transfer window, despite numerous sales. The club’s financial situation should not allow for significant movement this winter either, leaving Bruno Genesio to work with the squad in place.

In this context, it is Jeffrey de Lange who occupies the Marseille goal. Promoted to number one after Geronimo Rulli’s departure, the Dutchman is performing adequately, but is not perceived internally as a long-term solution. Ngapandouetnbu, now a Cameroon international, would represent a different profile: young, progressing and already familiar with the project.

Before considering a return to the Canebière, the goalkeeper will need to confirm his performances over time in Ligue 2. But the foundations are there, and OM has taken contractual precautions to ensure they have leverage if performances continue.