Egan-Riley’s Limited Role at Marseille Raises Questions
Published: March 12, 2026, 8:02 PM – Updated: March 13, 2026, 12:10 AM
CJ Egan-Riley has found playing time hard to come by since joining Olympique de Marseille. The 23-year-old defender has logged the second-fewest minutes of any outfield player in the squad since the season began, raising questions about his role within the team.
Limited Minutes Despite Versatility
Egan-Riley has appeared in 14 matches across all competitions, totaling 682 minutes played. Only Hamed Junior Traoré has seen less action among the outfield players, with 556 minutes, but Traoré has been sidelined with a thigh injury from September to January.
Beye’s Assurance Amid Competition
“He is a very committed boy in training. He hasn’t played in a whereas. What is certain is that he is a player who is capable of playing on the right or in the axis of a 4 or 3 defense. The fact that he has not played for a long time, we have to improve his athleticism. As with Pavard before Toulouse, I said that everyone will have their card to play. It’s the same for CJ. I count on everyone. I reset the counters. Afterwards, it’s training and meritocracy. We are very happy with what he is doing in training.”
Habib Beye, Olympique de Marseille Manager
Despite not featuring in manager Habib Beye’s first four matches, Beye has stated that Egan-Riley will have his card to play
. The manager highlighted the defender’s versatility, noting his ability to play both center-back and right-back.
Previous Challenges and Recent Absence
Egan-Riley’s limited playing time began under Roberto De Zerbi and has continued with Beye. He hasn’t made an appearance since January 13th, when he came on as a substitute in a Coupe de France match against Bayeux, even scoring a goal.
Arrival and Background
Egan-Riley joined Marseille in July 2025 from Burnley. He is eligible to play for England, Ireland, and Jamaica. He is the brother of Roman Egan-Riley, who plays for Burnley FC U21.
Nine Matches Remaining
Egan-Riley has nine matches remaining to prove his value to the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What position does CJ Egan-Riley play? He primarily plays as a Centre-Back, but can also play as a Right-Back or Defensive Midfielder.
- When did CJ Egan-Riley join Olympique de Marseille? He joined in July 2025.
- What is CJ Egan-Riley’s current contract situation? His contract with Olympique de Marseille expires on June 30, 2029.
Will Egan-Riley secure the opportunity to showcase his abilities, or will he remain a peripheral figure at the club? Only time will tell.