Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has been stripped of the Marseille captaincy following his decision to reject a £15 million transfer to Newcastle United, a move that reportedly caused significant frustration at the French club. The midfielder was the designated captain for Friday's match against Atletico Madrid, but the armband was instead worn by Timothy Weah, according to team sheets.
Marseille and Newcastle had reportedly reached an agreement for the transfer, but Hojbjerg opted to remain in the south of France. This decision has led to his removal as captain, with French reports indicating that club owner Frank McCourt is displeased. Hojbjerg is unlikely to be reinstated as skipper.
Marseille, facing pressure to reduce its wage bill due to financial difficulties, had seen the potential transfer as a way to achieve that. Hojbjerg's refusal to leave denied the club a significant financial windfall, positioning him in a difficult situation where he is criticized despite what is perceived as loyalty to the club.
Manager Matthias Jaissle had identified the Denmark international as an experienced organizer for his plans, and initial talks for the transfer had progressed well before Hojbjerg changed his mind. The midfielder is now considering his future, with reports suggesting AC Milan is also interested should he decide to leave Marseille.
Marseille endured a turbulent last season, finishing fifth and experiencing multiple managerial changes, including the sacking of Roberto de Zerbi. Habib Beye briefly took over before departing at the end of the season, and Bruno Genesio is the current manager, facing immediate dressing room unrest.
Meanwhile, Newcastle has also experienced a summer of significant personnel changes. The club has seen captain Bruno Guimaraes depart for Arsenal, forward Anthony Gordon move to Barcelona, and midfielder Sandro Tonali join Tottenham. Manager Eddie Howe stepped down on July 31, having previously guided the team from relegation to Champions League qualification and ending a 56-year major trophy drought. The club has also missed out on other transfer targets, such as Victor Munoz and Johan Manzambi, who opted for Liverpool and Aston Villa, respectively.