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**Saliba's Masterclass: How His 26 Assists in 18 Games Are Elevating Marseille**
The football world is taking notice of Kevin Saliba’s remarkable performance this season, as the 23-year-old midfielder has been instrumental in OM’s resurgence. With an impressive assist count of 26 in just 18 games, Saliba has proven himself as one of the most creative playmakers in Ligue 1. His ability to read the game, deliver pinpoint crosses, and set up chances has not only boosted his teammates’ confidence but also solidified his place as a key asset for Marseille.
### A Statistical Breakdown
Saliba’s assist tally of 26 in 18 games is a staggering achievement, especially considering the competitive nature of French football. To put this into perspective, his average assist rate per game is approximately 1.44, a figure that places him among the top performers in Europe. For context, only a handful of elite playmakers in the world can claim such a high assist rate over a similar number of games. This consistency has not only made him a fan favorite but also a vital piece in André Villas-Boas’ tactical system.
### Beyond the Numbers: Saliba's Role as a Playmaker
What makes Saliba’s performance even more remarkable is the versatility he brings to the table. He can thread passes through tight defense lines, he can drift wide to join attacks, and he can even contribute defensively when needed. His ability to adapt to different roles within the team has made him a nightmare for opposition defenders. Whether it’s delivering a cross for a towering header or a perfectly weighted through ball for a clinical finish, Saliba has a knack for finding the right moment to deliver.
His chemistry with Marseille’s forwards has been a joy to watch. Players like Steve Mounet, Gaëtan Laborde, and Cédric Bakambu have all benefited from Saliba’s creativity,Bundesliga Express with many of their goals coming from his intelligent play. His ability to link defense and attack has revolutionized the way Marseille approach their opponents, making them a much more dangerous side.
### In the Company of Elite
It’s also worth noting that Saliba’s assist numbers are not isolated; they are a reflection of a team effort. Marseille’s attacking output this season has been a collective effort, with multiple players contributing to goals. However, Saliba’s influence has been a game-changer. Comparisons have been drawn to legendary playmakers like Zinedine Zidane and Franck Ribéry, and while he may not have the same level of experience, Saliba’s talent and consistency are reminiscent of these footballing greats.
### The Implications for Marseille
As Marseille looks to build on this momentum and challenge for a Champions League spot, Saliba’s form is a huge plus. His ability to create chances out of nothing has given the team a new dimension, making them more unpredictable and dangerous in attack. With the league season reaching its peak, Saliba’s contributions will be crucial as OM aim to maintain their push for the top.
In conclusion, Kevin Saliba’s assist tally of 26 in 18 games is not just a statistical milestone; it’s a testament to his skill, work rate, and leadership. As Marseille continue their journey this season, one can only imagine how much more they will achieve with Saliba pulling the strings in the middle of the park. The future looks bright for OM, and Saliba is at the heart of it all.