Olympique de Marseille may have found its next African sensation. According to exclusive information published by AfricaFoot on April 20, 2026, a young Malian striker is about to fly to Marseille for a trial. His name: Sékou Oumar Maïga. His nickname in Malian football circles: "Mbappé".

Eight goals in the Malian league. A catchy nickname. And soon, perhaps, a professional contract in Marseille. Sékou Oumar Maïga's story resembles those meteoric rises that Africa seems to specialize in — and which OM has made its specialty since Mehdi Benatia took over recruitment.

Trained at CAS Sevaré, one of Mali's up-and-coming academies, the young striker then joined Arsenal Talent Sportif before establishing himself this season with Binga FC, a Ligue 1 Pro Orange Mali club. His profile? A center-forward capable of playing on the wings, fast, versatile, with a proven eye for goal. The eight goals he has scored this season—including decisive goals against Diarra FC, Derby Académie, and Stade Malien—have finally attracted attention far beyond Mali's borders.

Marseille overtakes Belgian clubs

Sékou Oumar Maïga was already known to European scouts. Several Belgian clubs had approached him, impressed by his performances in the national league. But it was Olympique de Marseille who ultimately made the first move, and decisively so. According to AfricaFoot, whose information was relayed by AfricaSoccer on April 21, the deal is "almost finalized": the player is expected to join Marseille soon for a trial period, prior to signing his first professional contract.