At 23, Jacques Faty has signed with OM for 3 seasons. The U-23 international says he “spoke a lot with Samir Nasri before signing. He spoke to me about the atmosphere and the club and that confirmed my decision.”

You just signed with OM for 3 years. What are your first impressions?
It’s a personal satisfaction because when I had the honour of speaking with Pape Diouf and José Anigo, it made me really happy. I had a tough time at Rennes, and I had numerous offers from overseas but I didn’t really want to leave the country. I felt like staying in France and progressing some more and then Marseille made me an offer.

Did the possibility of playing in the Champions League attract you?
It confirmed my decision. I would have come to OM even without the Champions League because Marseille is Marseille and that’s the best in my view. For my career, it’s a brilliant launching pad.

You are an U-23 international. Do you think OM can be a launching pad for your future with Les Bleus?
OM could boost my career, but without thinking about the national team. I will dedicate myself to my club and we’ll see what happens with the national team.

There is a lot of competition in defence. Does that scare you?
I’ve always experienced competition, be it at Stade Rennais or the French team. The competition will be healthy and will make us improve. I’ve always loved competition and we can get positive results from it.

Have you spoken with Albert Emon about where you will play or about tactics?
No, I haven’t had a chance to speak with the manager yet. I’ve spoken a lot with Pape Diouf and José Anigo. I know the manager was for my move to OM. I’m a central defender but I can play on the right or defensive midfield. This polyvalence makes me very useful.

Do you know any of the OM players personally?
Yes, I know Franck Ribéry and Samir Nasri. Ronald Zubar is a friend. I’ve also had contact with Lorik Cana, Mamadou Niang and Djibril Cissé. I spoke with Samir Nasri a lot before signing. He spoke to me about the atmosphere and the club and that confirmed my decision.

Jacques Faty
Defender
Born February 25, 1984 in Villeneuve Saint Georges
184cm, 78kg

Career
2002-03 : Rennes – 9 matches
2003-04 : Rennes – 32 matches
2004-05 : Rennes – 35 matches
2005-06 : Rennes – 23 matches (C3: 3 matches)
2006-07 : Rennes – 24 matches