### Guendouzi's Rise in Playing Time at Marseille: Key Developments
#### Transition to Ligue 1
When Youssoufa Muhammadi moved to Arsenal in the summer of 2019, he brought with him a wealth of talent in the form of midfielder Thomas Guendouzi. Guendouzi, at the time a promising talent, initially found it challenging to break into the Gunners' first-team. However, the French U-20 international showed glimpses of his potential and eventually found himself in the Ligue 1 side, Marseille, where he signed a permanent deal.
#### Establishing himself at Marseille
Guendouzi's move to Marseille represented a new chapter. Initially, the young player was often deployed on the left side, a role that saw him adapt quickly and showcase his versatility. Under the guidance of coach Rudi Garcia, Guendouzi's understanding of the game improved significantly. He began to feature regularly in Marseille's starting lineup and started to make a name for himself on the national stage as well.
#### Rise in Playing Time
The 2021-2022 season marked a pivotal moment for Guendouzi. With key players departing and others struggling for form, the club's hierarchy turned to the promising midfielder as a linchpin in the heart of the midfield. As a result, his playing time increased substantially. In the latter half of the season, he averaged over 90 minutes per match, demonstrating his reliability and fitness levels.
#### Key Contributions
Guendouzi's rise in playing time came with notable contributions to the team. His ability to control possession and distribute the ball effectively saw him become a crucial link in Marseille's midfield. Additionally, his defensive awareness helped solidify the defense, allowing the club to improve their positioning and gain a competitive edge. His performance was pivotal in Marseille's late surge towards the end of the season.
#### Conclusion
Thomas Guendouzi's growth at Marseille has been nothing short of remarkable. From a struggling young player to a key midfielder, he has turned his career around through hard work and a willingness to adapt. His rise in playing time has been one of the key developments for Marseille, contributing significantly to their success on and off the pitch. As Guendouzi continues to develop, he has the potential to become a cornerstone in Marseille's future plans.