The former Toulouse man has failed to impress in previous seasons for the club, but has started this year in blistering form with Marseille top of the league after four games.
“I said before the season started that Gignac would be OM’s best new signing, and it’s turned out to be the case,” said Papin.
“It doesn’t take much for things to click for you: a goal or a good performance, and your confidence comes back. He had a tough start, and because he’s from the area, it’s all the more difficult for him as he really wants to do well here. But when you have quality, you don’t just lose it overnight.”