Andre Ayew broke down in tears as he received a standing ovation from Marseille fans after scoring a consolation goal for Le Havre.
The ex-Swansea, West Ham and Nottingham Forest star was overcome with emotion at the weekend as the Stade Velodrome honoured their former hero – who won two Coupe de la Ligue trophies and three Trophée des Champions during his nine years at the club.
Veteran striker Ayew came through the ranks at OM and cemented his legendary status by racking up 60 goals and 25 assists between 2007 and 2015 for the French giants. Almost a decade on from scoring his last goal at the stadium in May 2015 for Marseille, Ayew found the back of the net in the dying minutes of the 5-1 rout, flicking in a cross at the near post.
As a show of respect, the 35-year-old chose not to celebrate against the club that gave him his big breakthrough. And in a surreal moment, his gesture earned a rapturous round of applause from every corner of Marseille’s ground as the home crowd showed their appreciation.
Minutes later, Ayew was treated to another heartfelt tribute as supporters applauded the Ghana international, who was substituted. Ayew was visibly emotional as tears streamed down his face as he walked towards the dugout. The frontman eventually regained his composure to thank his beloved fans for the touching moment.
In a post-match interview with DAZN, Ayew said: “Honestly, I want to thank all the people of Marseille. I am touched from the bottom of my heart. This club has given me so much. After the Padre and everything he has done, I have left my mark. It has always been my dream club.”