United States international Timothy Weah has set his sights on a starring role at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after sealing a season-long loan move to Olympique Marseille from Juventus this week.
The 25-year-old winger, son of former Liberian president and Ballon d’Or winner George Weah, is determined to use his stint in Ligue 1 to cement his place in the U.S. Men’s National Team ahead of the global showpiece, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
“I have to work hard to be in shape for the World Cup,” Weah said during his official presentation. “Everyone’s goal is to win something. I want to score, assist, and contribute to the team. The World Cup is coming ~ and it’s on my home turf.”
Weah, who previously featured for Paris Saint-Germain and Lille in France, returns to familiar territory with Marseille, joining under new manager Roberto De Zerbi. The deal includes a purchase obligation, signaling long-term interest from the club.
With Marseille preparing for a demanding campaign that includes UEFA Champions League football and a domestic title challenge, Weah’s versatility and pace are expected to play a key role. He’ll be competing for minutes in a competitive attacking line, but his experience ~ including three Ligue 1 titles ~ will be invaluable.
The New York-born forward was part of the U.S. squad at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he scored in the opening group match against Wales. The Americans eventually bowed out in the Round of 16, and Weah is eager for a deeper run next time.
“My goals are high. I’m only 25 and I have eight years left to win titles,” he added.
Marseille, meanwhile, are looking to end a 15-year wait for the Ligue 1 title and make a mark in Europe. Their last league triumph came in 2010, and De Zerbi’s revamped squad ~ now including Weah ~ will hope to dethrone PSG, who recently lost the Club World Cup final to Chelsea.
As Weah returns to a league he knows well, all eyes will be on his performance ~ not just in Marseille, but across the Atlantic, as the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins.
