FABIEN GLAD TO BE BACK

Last updated : 20 October 2003 By Editor
Fabien Barthez:

“I am delighted to be here. It must be said there are still
details to sort out between the clubs and myself but from
the moment I learned Manchester and Marseille were talking I
was in quite a rush to come here.

“Manchester are second in the Championship and doing well in
the Champions League. OM are in exactly the same situation.
For me, there is no difference between the two.

“Marseille are a special club for me. I really started out
here. My wish was (to play for) Marseille. I consider I
belong here. I have many links with the club and the region.
It's ideal so I jumped at the chance.”

Because the deal has occurred outside the designated
transfer window, FIFA have warned Marseille that they need
the blessing of the World governing body for the deal to go
through. However French League rules state keepers can be
drafted in so all may still go through.