Premier League’s ‘most disliked player’, 29, set to return to top flight after being banished to fifth tier

THE PREMIER LEAGUE’S self-proclaimed “most disliked player” could be set for a major comeback.

The cult hero was labelled the Prem’s ultimate “s**thouse”, often seeming as interested in winding up his opponents as scoring goals.

Neal Maupay could be set for a return to Marseille’s first teamCredit: Getty Images Maupay is the Premier League’s self-proclaimed ‘most disliked player’ It is, of course, Neal Maupay.

The controversial striker, 29, has been with Marseille since 2024, when he was loaned out by Everton, and became a permanent member of Roberto De Zerbi’s squad in June,

However, Maupay has already fallen out of favour under De Zerbi, who axed him from the senior squad.

According to The Argus, the Italian boss made the decision after the Maupay refused to move away.

And the ex-Brighton and Brentford ace has since seen himself demoted to L’OM’s reserves.

Maupay made his first outing with the youth squad as he helped them beat Seyssinet 1-0 in their regional group of National 3, the fifth tier of French football.

The centre-forward scored the winner from the penalty spot on 57 minutes.

And, against all odds, it could have earned the Frenchman a big return to Marseille‘s first team.

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De Zerbi is dealing with some major absences up front and suggested Maupay could be part of his squad for Saturday’s Ligue 1 clash against Brest at Velodrome.

De Zerbi said: “He’s doing better physically. He might be there tomorrow [against Brest].”

Maupay has clashed with numerous players during his time in England.

The Frenchman butted heads with James Maddison last year by copying the Tottenham star’s celebration, with Richarlison also getting involved.

And Maupay also collided with Kyle Walker, with the ex-Manchester City star threatening to “knock him out” in 2024.