# Saliba's Impressive Assist Count During His Marseille Stint
During his time at Olympique de Marseille, midfielder Benjamin Saliba showcased a remarkable assist record that reflected his versatility and tactical awareness on the pitch. Joining the Ligue 1 club in the summer of 2020, Saliba’s impact was almost immediate, as he quickly became a pivotal figure in Marseille's attack.
## The Rise of a Versatile Talent
A product of the highly-regarded French youth system, Saliba initially made his name with Saint-Étienne before making the move to Marseille. His ability to play in multiple positions, including central midfield, defensive midfield, and even as a defensive full-back, was a testament to his adaptability. This versatility was evident in his assist count during his Marseille tenure.
## A Statistician's Dream
Saliba's assist count during his time at Marseille was nothing short of outstanding. Over the course of two seasons, he registered a total of 15 assists in 53 appearances across all competitions. His most productive season came in the 2020-2021 campaign, where he contributed six assists in 31 matches, showcasing his ability to create goal-scoring opportunities consistently.
## The Role of Technique and Vision
What set Saliba apart was his technique and vision. Whether delivering precise through-balls, setting up his teammates with clever layoffs, or even scoring a few goals himself, Saliba was always a threat in the final third. His ability to read the game and make split-second decisions on the pitch was a significant factor in his success.
## The Impact on Marseille
Marseille's impressive assist count with Saliba in the side highlighted the team's offensive prowess. Under manager Rudi Garcia, the club prioritized a possession-based style of play that maximized the creativity and skill of players like Saliba. The midfielder's performances played a crucial role in Marseille's campaign, which included reaching the Coupe de France final and finishing fifth in Ligue 1.
## The Next Chapter
Although Saliba left Marseille in the summer of 2022 to join Arsenal, his assist record during his time at the Stade Vélodrome serves as a testament to his ability and potential. As he continues his career with the Gunners, fans and analysts will be eager to see if he can replicate his assist success at the Premier League level.