news-engine

Pierre Emile Hojbjerg’s decision to reject Newcastle United has seen Marseille punish the midfielder by taking the captaincy from him. RMC Sport that the Dane’s refusal to join Newcastle has ‘greatly annoyed’ Marseille owner Frank McCourt. Newcastle United rejection Sport Witness covered a report this week explaining that the 31-year-old had angered Marseille by turning down a move to Newcastle at the last minute. The French side desperately need sales to satisfy French authorities and UEFA. Getting the Dane’s wages off the books, and recouping their transfer fee too, was highly valued by Marseille. Now they are punishing the midfielder for his choice. RMC Sport report that as indicated by the line-up for today’s friendly with Atletico Madrid, the club have decided to strip Hojbjerg of the captaincy. Timothy Weah has replaced him in the role. According to the French outlet, Hojbjerg’s decision has ‘deeply irritated’ owner Frank McCourt and the Marseille management. His transfer to Newcastle United would have brought in a substantial fee and significantly reduced the wage bill. Marseille annoyed The club maintain that individual interests cannot override the collective interest. They want everyone to recognise the importance of that stance. They clearly believe that Hojbjerg has not listened. He has put his own interests above Marseille’s. Subsequently, the club have decided that he can no longer wear the armband. They clearly believe that he has not shown captain material, or mentality. Now they’ve handed down their punishment, even though it all feels very petty. Whether this is one step towards forcing a transfer remains to be seen. It certainly feels like Marseille are determined to try and force Pierre Emile Hojbjerg out of the door. If the Dane will let them, is up for debate. He’s already shown that he’s not for moving by turning down Newcastle. Now he faces a difficult couple of weeks.