Former Super Eagles defender Taye Taiwo has been inducted into Olympique Marseille’s prestigious Club of Legends, a moment of celebration for both the football world and Nigeria.
The 39-year-old, who made 271 appearances for the French club between 2005 and 2011, scoring 25 goals and contributing 23 assists, now joins an elite group of footballing icons including Samir Nasri, Lori Cana, Mamadou Niang, Fabrizio Ravaneli, and Paulo Cezar in Marseille’s Hall of Fame.
Taiwo’s induction into the Club of Legends comes as a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the club.
Taiwo during his time at Marseille.
His time at Marseille was marked by success, including winning Ligue 1, the League Cup, and the French Super Cup before his departure for AC Milan in 2011. Known for his powerful left foot and attacking runs from defense, Taiwo quickly became a fan favorite at the Stade Vélodrome, with his thunderous free-kicks and long-range goals earning him cult status.
Now retired and residing in France since 2019, Taiwo is one of just four Nigerians to have played for Marseille, alongside Wilson Oruma, Joseph Yobo, and Victor Agali.
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On the international stage, Taiwo made 54 appearances for the Super Eagles between 2004 and 2011, scoring five goals and establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s finest left backs of his generation.
Taiwo’s induction into the Club of Legends also honors his crucial role in helping Marseille win their first Ligue 1 title in 18 years during the 2009/10 season.
𝗡𝗮𝗶𝗷𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱
Taye Taiwo is in the house tonight as the former Olympien and Super Eagle is inducted into the #OMLegends club
— Olympique de Marseille (@OM_English) February 2, 2025
After his time at Marseille, he went on to play for AC Milan and briefly featured for Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League before retiring in 2019.
French fans also expressed their admiration, recognizing Taiwo’s legacy at the club. His induction cements his status as one of the most successful African players to have worn the iconic white shirt.
Source: The Athletic NG
