Bixente Lizarazu has returned to French domestic football after signing for Marseille.
Lizarazu, who was released by Bayern Munich at the end of last season, has agreed a two-year deal at Stade Velodrome.
“It is official and it brings me great pleasure,” Lizarazu told the club’s official website.
“After some discussions with the club, all is regulated.
“I selected Marseille because of the Jose Anigo’s ambitions and I also had discussions with (president) Christophe Bouchet and (sporting director) Pape Diouf who explained to me the ambitions of the club and that made up my mind.
“I also had lengthy talks with Fabien (Barthez) during Euro 2004 and he had only positive things to say about the team.
“Zizou (Zinedine Zidane) even told me to join as he knows Marseille so well and Frank Leboeuf also delivered a favorable opinion.
“Marseille are building a very beautiful team and a beautiful season is envisaged.
“This is a new adventure for me after seven years spent in Bayern. I am very glad to return to France at a large club such as l’OM.”
