While the move appeared to be progressing smoothly, L’Équipe reports that Aguerd has ultimately turned down a move to Real Sociedad.
The Spanish club and Marseille had agreed on a €2 million loan fee, with a non-mandatory €17 million purchase option.
The 30-year-old had also successfully completed his medical on Wednesday, August 12, and was reportedly attracted by the project presented to him eventhough he also had an offer from Qatar’s Al Sadd. However, the situation changed the following day, as L’Équipe reported on Friday, August 14.
“At the last moment, on Thursday evening, the defender ultimately refused to join Sociedad for reasons that remain unclear,” L’Équipe reported, without providing further details.
Read also : Nayef Aguerd passes medical as Real Sociedad return nears
Aguerd did pass his medical, contrary to reports circulating earlier, but the reasons behind his sudden change of decision remain unknown for now.
The Morocco international joined Marseille from West Ham a year ago for €23 million. He underwent surgery on March 12 to treat persistent pubalgia and has not played since.
Initially called up for the 2026 World Cup, Aguerd was forced to withdraw after failing to fully recover from his injury. He was eventually replaced by Marwane Saadane.
During his first spell at Real Sociedad, the Morocco international made 36 appearances in all competitions.
