Star now the ‘symbol’ of club’s resurgence after Sheffield United exit – Determination has paid off

After a terrible start to the season following his Sheffield United exit, Iliman Ndiaye has found his feet at Marseille thanks to Jean-Louis Gasset.

The 70-year-old has taken over from Gennaro Gattuso until the end of the season and managed to redress a sinking ship rather quickly, getting the best out of the former Blades star in the process.

Foot Mercato focus on the impressive turnaround that has taken place, and label the Senegal international the ‘symbol’ of Marseille’s reinvigoration, putting an end to his miserable time after the pressure he felt from his transfer from Sheffield United.

Those around him admitted he was struggling to live up to the expectations placed on his shoulders, but it has become clear that Gasset has put all of those to rest since his arrival, playing the 24-year-old where he prefers to be played, meaning more centrally.

He has been a near perfect complement to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang these past few weeks, managing to recapture the form that caught the eye of many when he was at Sheffield United.

Despite the rumours in January, he ‘never had the intention’ of leaving midway through the season, and was ‘always determined’ of imposing himself at the Ligue 1 side.

He has done so, thanks to Gasset in particular, and all the angry noise that was growing louder after the big Sheffield United transfer has now died down, replaced by cheers around the Vélodrome.