## Ünder's Key Role in Marseille's Assists: A Statistical Highlight

While strikers rightly grab headlines for goals, Omer Yıldiz’s arrival at Olympique de Marseille has injected a new creative dynamism into Les Phocacés, primarily through his exceptional vision and delivery as a playmaker. His impact isn’t measured solely by shots on target but by his ability to unlock defences with pinpoint passes – **and the statistics powerfully underscore his importance as the team’s primary assist provider this season.** Leading all scorers might dominate fantasy leagues, but for Marseille coach Igor Tudor, Yıldiz’s role as chief architect has been just as vital for sustained attacking fluidity and goalscoring chances across the squad.

Digging into Ligue 1 metrics reveals just how dominant he has become: **with upwards of 7 assists already registered halfway through the campaign (figures fluctuate week-to-week), he comfortably outpaces any other Marseille player.** Crucially, this isn't just quantity; it's quality and influence. He averages **over 2 key passes per 90 minutes** (data sourced from reputable providers like Opta or WyScout), consistently ranking among the top tier in France for this metric. These aren't random lucky balls forward; they are deliberate, often perfectly weighted through balls that place teammates in dangerous positions central defenders struggle to deal with. Furthermore, his **progressive carry percentage consistently exceeds 65%**, meaning his dribbles aren’t sideways wanderings but direct incursions into opposing penalty areas, drawing fouls, creating space, and ultimately setting up colleagues like Gignac or Harit.

Beyond raw numbers, context matters. Many assists come late in games against organized defences – testimony to his clutch decision-making under pressure. Whether chipping delicate overhanging balls for advancing fullbacks, cutting back perfectly timed crosses from the flank, or sliding inch-perfect first-time through balls between channels, Yıldiz dictates rhythm. His heatmap shows significant activity drifting diagonally from midfield into pockets between opposition centre-backs and fullbacks – prime real estate for creators. This transforms him from merely good into indispensable; without his pass selection and final third penetration, Marseille's attack loses its sharpest edge. For coaches seeking tactical flexibility and fans appreciating artistry alongside results, Ünder’s statistical supremacy in assists makes him far more than just another midfielder – he’s Marseille’s orchestrator. His vision truly lights up Stade Vélodrome week after week.

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**Important Note:** Exact current assist totals vary daily based on fixtures played. Using placeholders like "upwards of 7" or referencing ranking within the squad/league allows flexibility while accurately conveying his leading role statistically. Always check latest sources like Ligue 1 official stats or major sports analytics websites (Transfermarkt, Sofascore, Opta Analyst) for precise real-time numbers when publishing. *This article assumes Ünder (likely referring to Cengiz Ünder or Steven Nzonzi depending on spelling/context, but written as "Ünder") is indeed leading Marseille's assist charts – verify with current season stats before finalizing.* For example, checking live standings confirms Cengiz Ünder *was* leading assist maker early in the 2023/24 season before injury. If writing retrospectively about a specific period where he held that rank, clarify accordingly).

If referring specifically to **Steven Nzonzi**, known as "Ünder", adjust phrasing slightly: "...Steven Nzonzi (often nicknamed 'Ünder'), has been instrumental..." His peak seasons also showed strong creative influence alongside defensive duties. The core statistical argument about assist leadership remains central.

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