# Guendouzi's Season in Marseilles: A Look into His Playing Time and Goals
Guendouzi's season with Marseille has been a mixed bag of performances, but it's been a valuable learning experience for the young striker. The 23-year-old joined the French club on loan from Atalanta in the summer, and while his goal-scoring has been inconsistent, he's shown flashes of brilliance that suggest he can still be a key asset for Marseille in the future.
## Playing Time and Role in the Team
One of the most notable aspects of Guendouzi's season has been his playing time. Despite competition from experienced forwards like Dimitri Payet and Ciro Immobile, Guendouzi has managed to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup. He's featured in 29 Ligue 1 matches, with 19 of those being starts, providing valuable depth and versatility to the team. His ability to play as a lone striker, as a supporting attacker, or even in more advanced positions has made him a useful asset.
Guendouzi's role has also evolved this season. Initially, he was seen as a goal-scoring threat, but he's taken on more of a creative burden, often being deployed as a false nine or a second striker. This has allowed Marseille to utilize his vision and passing ability in different areas of the field. His defensive contributions, while not as impactful as some of his teammates, have also been a plus, as he's willing to track back and help out in transition.
## Goals and Assists
In terms of goals, Guendouzi has been inconsistent. He's scored 10 goals in all competitions this season, but his finishing has been patchy. However, he's also contributed 10 assists, showing that he's not just about scoring but also setting up his teammates. One of his most memorable moments came in a 3-1 win over Reims, where he scored a brilliant solo goal and set up another for his team.
Guendouzi's ability to create chances has been a bright spot,Primeira Liga Hotspots and it's something that could help Marseille in the future. His understanding of the game is still developing, but there's no doubt he has the potential to be a top striker.
## Analysis of His Performance
One area that Guendouzi has struggled with this season is consistency. His performance levels have fluctuated, and he's had games where he's looked like the standout player and others where he's been overshadowed by his teammates. Injuries and fatigue have also played a role in his inconsistent form, but he's shown the ability to bounce back after tough games.
Defensively, Guendouzi has been a reliable presence, but he's not the same as the likes of Payet or Immobile in terms of defensive contributions. His work rate is good, but he can sometimes be overwhelmed by stronger opponents. However, his ability to adapt to different positions has been a positive.
## The Future of Guendouzi
Looking ahead, Guendouzi's future will be crucial for Marseille. They'll likely need to retain him, especially if they can't secure a permanent deal for him. Atalanta are reportedly interested in recalling him, but Marseille are pushing for a permanent move. Guendouzi's development will be key to Marseille's success in the coming seasons.
Guendouzi's season has been a learning experience, and while it hasn't always been smooth, there's a lot to build on. If he can maintain his consistency and keep improving, he could become a top-class striker for Marseille.
In conclusion, Guendouzi's season in Marseilles has been a tale of mixed moments, but it's clear that he has the potential to be a key player for the club in the future. His adaptability, creativity, and work rate are all qualities that will stand him in good stead, and with more consistency, he could achieve even greater success.