Senegalese international Iliman Ndiaye recently praised his Moroccan counterpart Azzedine Ounahi, with whom he shared the locker room at Olympique de Marseille.
Returning to Marseille in August 2023 after a successful season at Sheffield United (15 goals and 12 assists in 52 matches), Ndiaye was back on the Canebière, where he was trained. Despite a hopeful return, his performance — 4 goals and 5 assists in 46 appearances — was deemed insufficient, leading him to head back to England a year later, this time with Everton.
During this time, the Senegalese played 27 matches alongside Ounahi in the Marseille colors. When asked about the most underrated player he has played with, the Africa Cup of Nations champion didn’t hesitate to mention the Moroccan international (46 caps, 9 goals), whom he considers one of the best technicians he has ever played with.
“Azzedine Ounahi, at Marseille. He’s one of the best players I’ve played with. Technically,” he shared during a quiz with FotMob.
These comments echo the memorable reaction of Luis Enrique after Spain’s elimination by Morocco in the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2022. At that time, the current Paris Saint-Germain coach was impressed by Ounahi’s performance.
Iliman Ndiaye (Ex-OM):
"The most underrated player I’ve played with? Azzedine Ounahi, at Marseille.
He’s the best I’ve played with, technically he’s strong." pic.twitter.com/2L9jSL9mOg
— Massilia Zone (@MassiliaZone) February 16, 2026
“I was pleasantly surprised by the number 8, I can’t remember his name, sorry. My God, where did this boy come from? He played very well. He surprised me,” he said at a press conference.
Currently a player for Girona FC, Ounahi is unavailable due to a calf injury sustained during the 2025 AFCON held at home. However, his return to the pitch is expected in the coming weeks.
