Olympique de Marseille president Vincent Labrune has revealed how his side once refused the opportunity to sign Leicester City superstar Riyad Mahrez.
The Algeria international has been one of the revelations of the Premier League season so far—along with teammate Jamie Vardy. And while the England international has made headlines with 14 goals, Mahrez isn’t too far behind with 10.
Similarly, the North African has demonstrated his creativity with six assists, putting him joint-second in the EPL assists charts, behind only Mesut Ozil of Arsenal.
Indeed, such has been Mahrez’s impact this season that the Gunners have been linked to the wideman, with Arsene Wenger understood to see the winger as a potential solution to his side’s injury crisis.
However, things could have been so different.
Marseille president Labrune revealed in the French media this week that his side had the opportunity to sign Mahrez last season, but arrogantly chose to turn down the opportunity.
SEE MORE:
Video: Real Madrid offer trial to 11-year-old wonderkid Mark Norris, but door not closed for Man United
Leaked: Real Madrid new kit; purple is the colour for 2016-17 season
Barcelona eyeing unlikely return for veteran goal-machine
“Do you really think that players from Leicester City could have a role to play in Marseille’s project?” asked Labrune, speaking to France Football.