The Olympique de Marseille is going through a promising period, confirmed by the presence of four of its players in the Team’s standard team after their brilliant victory over FC Lorient (4-0). The new recruits, Benjamin Pavard and Nayef Aguerd, quickly found their place, illustrating clear progress and encouraging complementarity. Geoffrey Kondogbia and Mason Greenwood also shone, strengthening the team’s strength and demonstrating the quality of summer recruitment led by Roberto De Zerbi. This strong representation in the typical team sends a clear message: OM intends to play the first roles this season and may well be at the top of the Ligue 1 ranking if this dynamic continues.

However, this good news is tempered by Nayef Aguerd’s unavailability for the next Champions League match against Real Madrid. The Moroccan central defender suffers from a concussion following a shock during the match against Lorient, preventing him from joining the training group. This was a tough blow for the team, which relied on its presence to stabilize the defence against one of Europe’s most formidable attacks. Moreover, the absence of Amine Gouiri adds to the difficulty of this crucial meeting.

Facing Real Madrid, Roberto De Zerbi should review his defensive plans, with Facundo Medina probably titularized alongside Pavard. Leonardo Balerdi, whose form is uncertain, could also be recalled. The attack will have to be based on the experience of Pierre-Emerik Aubameyang in an attempt to break through the Madrid defence, deprived of Antonio Rüdiger. Despite these challenges, OM will face the match with an ambitious and strengthened team, ready to face a huge challenge in Santiago Bernabéu.