Mattéo Guendouzi: A Footballing Journey from France to Italy

From Marseille to Rome: Guendouzi's Club Career

Mattéo Guendouzi's footballing journey began in his hometown of Poissy, France. He joined the local club, Poissy AS, at the age of six and quickly rose through the ranks. In 2014, he was scouted by FC Lorient and moved to the club's youth academy. Guendouzi spent three years with Lorient, impressing with his technical ability and physical strength. In 2017, he signed his first professional contract with the club and made his Ligue 1 debut in August of that year.

Guendouzi quickly became a regular starter for Lorient, playing in over 50 matches during his two seasons with the club. His performances attracted the attention of several top European clubs, and in July 2018, he joined Arsenal for a fee of around £8 million.

Guendouzi made his Arsenal debut in a Europa League match against Vorskla Poltava in September 2018. He quickly established himself as a key player for the Gunners, playing in over 40 matches in his first season. However, he fell out of favor with manager Mikel Arteta in the 2020-21 season and was loaned out to Hertha Berlin in February 2021.

Guendouzi returned to Arsenal for the 2021-22 season but was again deemed surplus to requirements by Arteta. He joined Marseille on loan in July 2022, and after impressing during his loan spell, made the move permanent in July 2023.

International Career

Guendouzi has represented France at youth level, playing for the under-18, under-19, and under-21 teams. He made his senior debut for France in November 2019, playing in a friendly match against Albania.

Guendouzi has since gone on to make several appearances for France, including playing in the 2020-21 UEFA Nations League Finals, where France finished as runners-up to Spain.

Conclusion

Mattéo Guendouzi is a talented young midfielder who has already achieved great things in his career. He is a key player for Marseille and the France national team, and he has a bright future ahead of him.