Former Olympique Marseille sporting director Medhi Benatia revealed that he tried to sign Neil El Aynaoui for the club. Benatia stated that the 24-year-old Moroccan and French midfielder was too expensive for Marseille. Roma signed El Aynaoui from Lens in July 2025 for a reported fee of €23.5 million.
Benatia also commented on the player's situation at Roma, expressing that he did not understand why El Aynaoui had played less than expected and describing him as a very strong player who combines quality with quantity. In the 2025/2026 Serie A season, El Aynaoui made 25 appearances, scoring one goal, and providing two assists. The player's contract with the Italian club runs until June 2030. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt at €20 million. Several clubs, including Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, have also been linked with the player.
