NEWS NOW: Take Me Home, Back To Marseille! Leeds United Goalkeeper Illan Meslier Declares Desire to Play in Ligue 1 by 2025
In a surprising turn of events, Leeds United’s French goalkeeper Illan Meslier has revealed his ambition to return to Ligue 1, with a clear declaration that he intends to play in France’s top division by 2025. Meslier, who has been a mainstay at Elland Road since joining from Lorient in 2020, has spoken candidly about his desire to take his talents back to his homeland, with Olympique de Marseille emerging as a potential destination.
The Rise of Illan Meslier
Meslier, 24, has been one of the standout performers for Leeds United in recent seasons, despite the club’s struggles in the Premier League and their eventual relegation to the EFL Championship. His performances between the sticks have caught the eye of fans and scouts alike, making him one of the most promising young goalkeepers in Europe.
The French shot-stopper has amassed a wealth of experience since joining Leeds from Lorient in a deal worth around £5 million. Having made over 100 appearances for the club, Meslier has demonstrated his shot-stopping ability, impressive reflexes, and command of the box, earning widespread praise for his performances in the top-flight.
However, despite being a key figure at Elland Road, Meslier’s heart appears to be set on a return to his native France, where he began his professional career with Lorient.
The Call of Ligue 1 and Marseille
Speaking to Le Journal du Football, Meslier admitted that the lure of Ligue 1 is strong, particularly with the ambition of top clubs like Olympique de Marseille. “It’s always been a dream of mine to return to France and play in Ligue 1, and I believe that 2025 will be the right time for that transition,” Meslier said. “I have had the privilege of playing in the Premier League, and I have learned a great deal from that experience. But my heart is still in France, and Marseille is a club I have great respect for.”
Marseille, one of France’s most prestigious football clubs, has been a regular competitor in European competitions and is renowned for its passionate fanbase and storied history. The club is currently rebuilding under the leadership of new management, and a move for a goalkeeper of Meslier’s caliber could be seen as part of their long-term vision to return to the top of French football.
Leeds United’s Perspective
While Leeds United will undoubtedly be disappointed by Meslier’s declaration, the club is aware of the possibility that the goalkeeper may seek a move in the near future. The Whites, now in the Championship, are focused on returning to the Premier League, and should Meslier push for a transfer, they will likely have to make a decision on whether to cash in on one of their prized assets or risk losing him for less in the future.
Leeds will also be keen to ensure they receive a fair transfer fee for the player, who is under contract until 2026. Given Meslier’s age, talent, and potential, his market value remains high, and a bidding war could develop between top Ligue 1 clubs and potentially others across Europe.
The 2025 Plan
Meslier’s timeline for a move is clear—he intends to join a Ligue 1 club by 2025, whether that be Marseille or another team. “I want to continue developing my game here at Leeds, but after my time here, I want to experience the French league again,” Meslier explained. “Marseille is a club with a huge history, and it would be an honor to play there one day.”
The timing of his potential move to Marseille, or another Ligue 1 side, could also be influenced by his career trajectory and the state of his current club. Leeds United’s ambitions in the Championship and the direction they take over the next couple of years may play a significant role in his decision-making process.
A New Challenge
For Illan Meslier, a return to Ligue 1 represents both a personal and professional challenge. The goalkeeper has proven himself in one of the toughest leagues in the world, and the prospect of playing for a club like Marseille in front of passionate fans is a dream for many footballers. The next few years will be crucial for the young Frenchman as he looks to balance his career aspirations with the demands of playing at the highest level in England before making his move back to France.
As the 2024-25 season progresses, all eyes will be on Meslier to see if he can maintain his form and whether any developments occur in his pursuit of a future in Ligue 1. One thing is for certain: the goalkeeper’s desire to return to France and play for Marseille could shake up the transfer market in the coming years, especially if Leeds United faces a promotion push or continues to struggle in the second tier.
Will Illan Meslier’s dreams of playing in Ligue 1 become a reality? Only time will tell, but for now, his ambition remains clear: Take me home, back to Marseille!
