The President of Olympique de Marseille, Pablo Longoria, responded to the criticisms made by Éric Di Meco regarding the club’s transfer policy. Di Meco, a former player and consultant for RMC Sport, had expressed scepticism about the recruitment strategy led by Longoria and Mehdï Benatia, calling it massive and unstable. He highlighted the frequent change of players as a sign of a lack of progress and success for the team. Longoria firmly refuted these accusations during an interview in Provence, calling them serious and intolerable, while recognizing that everyone has the right to his opinion. This development comes as OM prepares for a crucial week, marked by its return to the Champions League against Real Madrid.

There is uncertainty about the composition of the Marseille team for the match against Real Madrid, especially regarding the presence of Leonardo Balerdi. The Argentinian suffers from foot pain, resulting from an discomfort felt after his return from selection. This injury could paradoxically offer him an opportunity to regain his place in the 11th start, given the Agerd package. However, the competition for his post was strengthened with the arrival of players like Pavardet, Agerd, and Medina, who made a positive impression in the last game. If Balerdi was selected, he would take the place of Agerd, while the possible absence of Amine Gouiri could benefit Pierre-Emerik Aubameyang, who should start at the point of the attack.

The Marseille team will fly to Spain on Monday and will benefit from significant support from its supporters, with more than 4,000 people expected in the stands. A press conference is planned at the stadium, without on-site training. The club relies on this massive support to face Real Madrid, in a high-intensity match where technical management could favour more reliable profiles. OM is about to play a decisive game, hoping to confirm its place in the competition and make a good impression on the European stage.