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Cengiz Ünder's Wing Defense: Marseille's Key Player in the UEFA Champions League

Updated:2025-07-22 17:02    Views:110

**Cengiz Ünder: Marseille's Wing Defense in the UEFA Champions League**

Cengiz Ünder has quickly become a cornerstone for Olympique de Marseille as they prepare for the 2023-2024 UEFA Champions League campaign. The Turkish-born winger, who joined Marseille in 2022, has been instrumental in transforming the club's defensive capabilities while still contributing offensively.

Ünder primarily plays as a wing-back, a position that requires both defensive discipline and attacking flair. His ability to cover for full-backs and provide width in attack has made him a valuable asset for head coach Laurent Blanc. Defensively, Ünder is known for his tenacity in tracking back and intercepting opponents, which has significantly reduced the space Marseille's opponents have to create.

On the offensive side, Ünder's versatility allows him to play as a traditional winger or even as a central attacking midfielder. His pace and directness have made him a constant threat, and he has already contributed a handful of goals and assists since his arrival. His chemistry with teammates like Alexis Núñez and Gaëtan Laborde has been key to Marseille's attacking success.

One of Ünder's most impressive traits is his adaptability. He can play as a traditional wing-back, sitting deeper in midfield, or even in a more advanced role. This flexibility has been crucial for Blanc,Ligue 1 Express who often uses him to disrupt opponents' attacking play while still providing a offensive threat.

Defensively, Ünder's leadership has been a boon for Marseille. As the team's captain, he often organizes the defense and communicates effectively in high-press situations. His presence has given Marseille a much-needed solidified back line, which will be critical in the Champions League, where even small mistakes can be exploited.

Looking ahead, Ünder's ability to perform in multiple roles makes him a valuable asset for Marseille in the Champions League. His defensive contributions and attacking prowess ensure that he remains a key player, whether he's controlling the game or making crucial defensive interventions.

Cengiz Ünder's impact on Olympique de Marseille has been immediate and significant. His versatility, leadership, and attacking talent have made him a cornerstone of the team as they aim for a deep run in the Champions League. With Ünder in the lineup, Marseille is not only stronger defensively but also more dangerous going forward.