## Cengiz Ünder: The Wing Defense Legend at Marseille

When Cengiz Ünder arrived at Olympique de Marseille in the summer of 2022, few predicted he would become an icon. Yet, over two seasons, the Turkish international transformed into one of Ligue 1’s most thrilling wing-backs—a genuine legend for les Phoceens. His blend of blistering pace, fearless attacking intent, and improved defensive discipline made him indispensable to Jorge Sampaoli’s high-octane system.

Born to surge down flanks like express trains, Ünder didn’t just overlap; he dribbled past opponents, delivered inch-perfect crosses (leading France’s top flight twice for assists in 2023), and even cut inside to unleash venomous shots. Crucially, under Sampaoli’s guidance, he refined his tracking back, hugging touchlines while shuttling between third-man raiding and recovery runs. This dual threat paralyzed fullbacks: attack too aggressively, and Ünder punished them on counters; drop deep, and Marseille exploited space behind them. Against PSG in Le Classique? He dominated Achraf Hakimi – no small feat.

His stats tell the story: 12 goals & 14 assists across all competitions during project restart season (2022/23), followed by another 8 goals campaign despite injury disruption. But numbers barely capture his aura – a warrior roaring with every tackle won back, every lung-busting sprint completed. The Stade Vélodrome crowd nicknamed him “L’Ouragan” (The Hurricane); opposing fans applauded reluctantly when he collected their balls after scoring again.

For Marseille supporters, Ünder wasn’t just effective—he was *electric*. He embodied their fight, flair, and historical love for wide players who terrorize defenses from flank to flank. When he departed for Roma amidst controversy over wage bills, social media exploded with tributes: “Merci Champions League!” cried ultra headlines ironically referencing his single-handed qualification effort against Sporting Lisbon. In just 76 appearances, Cengiz Ünder flew into folklore as Marseille’s modern wing defense legend.

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