Former Paris St-Germain and Standard Liege defender Godwin Okpara during an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has said Tochukwu Nnadi’s move to Marseille is a step up in his career but believes the midfielder must adapt quickly to life in Ligue 1.
Nnadi joined the former French champions from Belgian side Zulte Waregem just before the January transfer window deadline, signing a deal at the Stade Velodrome until the summer of 2030 after Marseille agreed a €6m fee.
The 21-year-old had been linked with Premier League clubs West Ham United and Brighton, but Marseille won the race for his signature.
Speaking to Footy-Africa, Okpara praised Nnadi’s work ethic and said the move was deserved.
“I’m happy with the transfer. He’s a good player and really worked hard to get this opportunity,” Okpara told Footy-Africa.
“Hopefully he can adapt quickly and make an impact with Marseille. It is really a step up in his career.”
Okpara also pointed to the differences between the Belgian Pro League and Ligue 1, saying the French top flight demands a higher technical and tactical level.
“The Belgian league is more aggressive and physical, but in France it’s all about technique and tactics,” he explained. “They are totally different. Belgium is more like a starting point, because the French league is stronger and more developed.”
During his two seasons with Zulte Waregem, Nnadi helped the club secure promotion last season and made 18 appearances in the current campaign before completing his move.
Okpara, who also played in Belgium with Standard Liege, added that regular competition against elite opposition in France would accelerate the midfielder’s development.
“There are stronger teams and better players in France – PSG, the current European champions, Marseille, who have also won the Champions League, Monaco who have played in the final, and others,” Okpara said.
“Having the chance to compete against big teams and top players will definitely improve any player.”
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Nnadi began his European career with Bulgarian side Botev Plovdiv before moving to Belgium in January 2024. He made more than 50 appearances for Zulte Waregem and has earned senior caps for Nigeria, including appearances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
