Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s refusal to join Newcastle United has led to significant turmoil at Marseille, resulting in him losing the captain’s armband despite still being included in Bruno Genesio’s first-team plans.

Newcastle had targeted the 31-year-old midfielder as a seasoned addition following Bruno Guimarães’ £75 million transfer to Arsenal. They were prepared to finalize a deal worth approximately £15 million, but Hojbjerg ultimately chose not to return to the Premier League.

Marseille’s management expressed their anger over Hojbjerg's decision, as the transfer would have provided crucial funds and alleviated one of the club's higher salaries.

• Marseille responded by removing Hojbjerg as captain.
• Timothy Weah donned the armband during the match against Atletico Madrid.

This decision reportedly came from the club’s hierarchy rather than manager Bruno Genesio, who openly stated his disagreement with the punishment. He said, "It is a decision that was dictated to me by the club’s management. If I want to be completely frank, and I will be, it is not a decision that I agree with. But I am an employee – I have to comply with certain obligations. We did it."

Additionally, Get French Football News highlighted that Marseille was eager to secure around €15 million from Newcastle to help reduce their wage bill.

While the situation remains uncomfortable for Hojbjerg, Newcastle should avoid viewing Marseille’s frustration as a chance to revive the deal. The midfielder has made his stance clear, and signing a player reluctant to join is not ideal for Newcastle’s midfield reconstruction.

talkSPORT reported that AC Milan is monitoring Hojbjerg’s situation, potentially providing an alternative if his relationship with Marseille continues to deteriorate.

Stripping Hojbjerg of the captaincy for declining a transfer appears overly aggressive, and Genesio’s public dissent further highlights the internal discord at the club.