Nayef Aguerd found limited opportunities at the Premier League side after transferring from Rennes for £30 million in 2022.
The central defender participated in 58 games over a couple of seasons with West Ham United, before he was loaned to Real Sociedad in 2024/25 and subsequently transferred to Marseille during the summer transfer window.
Upon his return to France, the Moroccan national hopes to re-establish himself and recapture his peak form under the guidance of Roberto De Zerbi.
Former West Ham United man Nayef Aguerd assaulted after selfie request
Recently, Aguerd experienced a troubling incident, reportedly being attacked at a French airport ahead of his international duties with the Moroccan national team, according to information from BFM Marseille-Provence.
Reports indicate that the 29-year-old was approached by an individual in the VIP area who requested his contact details and a photograph, following which the individual “became agitated and attempted to strike him”.
Airport security intervened, leading to the man’s arrest. Aguerd was unable to file an official report before his departure.
The player communicated via Instagram, saying: “I am writing to assure everyone, following reports circulating over the past few hours, that I was indeed involved in an incident at Marignane airport while awaiting my flight to join the Moroccan national squad.
“Thankfully, it was more of a fright than anything else, and the situation was quickly managed due to the prompt action of security personnel and law enforcement.
“I am fine and now concentrating on what is most important: representing OM and playing for my country with pride. Let’s maintain calm and respect always, and life continues.”
Aguerd, having earned 56 caps for his nation, is scheduled to represent Morocco in a friendly match against Bahrain in Rabat on Thursday, preceding a World Cup qualifying game against Congo the following Tuesday.
The defender has played a crucial role in Morocco’s nearly flawless qualifying journey, with the team allowing only two goals and securing victories in each of their seven matches to date.
