Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed that Matt O’Riley has joined Marseille on loan for the 2025/26 campaign. The 25-year-old midfielder, who cost Brighton £25m from Celtic last summer, has struggled to hold down a starting role and will now seek regular minutes under Roberto De Zerbi in Ligue 1 and the Champions League.
The decision comes as something of a shock, with O’Riley having impressed in pre-season and scored against his former club Fulham on the opening weekend. However, Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler explained the rationale.
Hurzeler Explains the Decision
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler stressed that the move was not about O’Riley’s quality but about giving him consistent minutes, especially with Champions League football on offer at Marseille.
“Matt has the opportunity to challenge himself at the highest level in France and in the Champions League. We have a lot of competition in the midfield positions, and while we see Matt’s long-term future here with us, this gives him the potential of more game time.” — Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton head coach
The German coach insisted O’Riley remains part of Brighton’s long-term plans, but admitted competition from Rutter, Gruda, and Hinshelwood made game time less certain this season.
Matt O’Riley — 2025/26 Premier League Stats So Far
| Stat (2025/26) | Matt O’Riley |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 2 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 1.20 |
| Expected Assists (xA) | 0.17 |
| Shots on Target per Game | 1.0 |
| Key Passes | 2.0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 87% |
| Touches per Game | 43.5 |
| Cross Accuracy | 67% |
source: sofascore match data – September 2025
His early-season stats show efficiency in front of goal and neat distribution. O’Riley’s 87% passing accuracy and two key passes per game underline his creative potential, even in limited minutes.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William said:
“O’Riley’s exit surprised many because he looked sharp in pre-season and even scored against Fulham. But Brighton’s depth in attacking midfield meant Hurzeler had to make a call. Loaning him to De Zerbi’s Marseille is actually perfect — he’ll get Champions League football and be tested at a high level.”
He added:
“This isn’t a rejection of O’Riley’s ability — it’s Brighton making space for Rutter, Gruda, and the younger lads. If he thrives in France, he’ll return stronger or even raise his market value for a future sale.”
Key Insights
- Brighton loan Matt O’Riley to Marseille for 2025/26.
- Reunion with Roberto De Zerbi, who guided Marseille to Ligue 1 runners-up spot.
- Brighton rejected £25m Napoli bid earlier this summer.
- O’Riley: 2 PL games, 1 goal, 87% pass accuracy this season.
- Brighton midfield depth (Rutter, Gruda, Hinshelwood) behind decision.
What’s Next?
O’Riley will be unveiled by Marseille this week and could debut in Ligue 1 after the international break. De Zerbi is expected to use him as a creative option in the No10 role or as a more advanced No8.
Brighton will continue to monitor his progress closely, with Hurzeler insisting his long-term future remains at the Amex. However, strong performances in Ligue 1 and the Champions League could attract renewed permanent bids next summer.
Was Brighton right to loan Matt O’Riley — or will they regret losing midfield creativity too soon?
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