PSG vs Marseille – Possible Lineups and Suspension Risks
This Sunday, Paris Saint-Germain (1st) will face Olympique de Marseille (OM) (2nd) at the Parc des Princes in a highly anticipated clash for the 26th round of Ligue 1 2024-2025 (kickoff at 8:45 PM, broadcast on DAZN). PSG‘s coach, Luis Enrique, must carefully select his starting eleven while considering the opponent, upcoming fixtures, and potential suspension risks.
As always, predicting all of Luis Enrique’s choices is challenging. Rotation might be an option, even though the Champions League game is still a few days away (Tuesday). Fatigue—both physical and mental—could be a factor, and some players might need game time to maintain their rhythm.
Possible PSG Lineup:
Kvaratskhelia – Ramos – Dembélé
Doué – Vitinha – Neves
Mendes – Pacho – Beraldo – Hakimi
Paris Saint-Germain aims to maintain their lead in Ligue 1 with a strong performance against OM.
Donnarumma
Substitutes: Safonov, Tenas, Hernandez, Marquinhos, Kimpembe, Lee, Mayulu, Ruiz, Zaïre-Emery, Barcola, Mbaye.
Unavailable: El Hannach, Tape, Zague (coach’s decision).
Suspension Risk: Bradley Barcola (one yellow card away from suspension). If booked, he will miss the trip to Saint-Étienne on March 29 for Ligue 1 Matchday 27.
Marseille’s Situation
After a few chaotic seasons, Marseille may have found the right formula this summer with the arrival of Roberto De Zerbi as head coach. Having impressed with Brighton, he appears to be a strong addition for OM.
The season has been promising, with key signings complementing De Zerbi’s tactical philosophy. Although Marseille was eliminated from the Coupe de France by Lille, they currently sit 2nd in Ligue 1, keeping their hopes alive for Champions League qualification. However, the race remains tight, and a slip in form could quickly change their standing.
Key Stats
This season, OM boasts the second-best attack in Ligue 1 with 52 goals, trailing Paris Saint-Germain, who lead the charts with 70 goals. Defensively, Marseille ranks third-best, conceding 30 goals, while Paris Saint-Germain has the best defense, allowing just 24 goals.
Top Scorers:
- Marseille: Mason Greenwood (15 goals, 2nd in Ligue 1).
- PSG: Ousmane Dembélé (20 goals, 1st in Ligue 1).
Top Assists:
- Marseille: Neal Maupay & Luis Henrique (4 assists each, ranked 22nd and 23rd in Ligue 1).
- Ligue 1 Leader: Rayan Cherki (9 assists).
Marseille’s Recent Form
- 09/02/2025 (Ligue 1) – Angers vs Marseille: 0-2 (79% possession, 18 shots, 10 on target).
- 15/02/2025 (Ligue 1) – Marseille vs Saint-Étienne: 5-1 (71% possession, 28 shots, 14 on target).
- 22/02/2025 (Ligue 1) – Auxerre vs Marseille: 3-0 (Marseille down to 10 men at 63’) (80% possession, 8 shots, 2 on target).
- 02/03/2025 (Ligue 1) – Marseille vs Nantes: 2-0 (75% possession, 21 shots, 5 on target).
- 08/03/2025 (Ligue 1) – Marseille vs Lens: 0-1 (76% possession, 15 shots, 6 on target).
Expected Marseille Lineup (3-4-2-1):
Gouiri
Rabiot – Greenwood
Merlin – Bennacer – Rongier – Luis Henrique
Kondogbia – Luiz Felipe – Balerdi
Rulli
Unavailable: Murillo, Höjbjerg, Harit, Vaz, and Moumbagna (injuries).
Marseille’s Playing Style
Under De Zerbi, OM favors an offensive approach, pressing high and utilizing quick, short passes to create spaces. This sets up an exciting showdown against Paris Saint-Germain, who also prioritise attacking football.
Marseille’s aggressive style has resulted in frequent red cards—a potential factor in this Le Classique. The match could turn explosive, so Paris Saint-Germain will need to match OM’s intensity while staying disciplined.
Final Thoughts
With Paris Saint-Germain leading the table and Marseille fighting for Champions League qualification, this clash is more than just a rivalry—it could be pivotal for the Ligue 1 title race. Expect a high-intensity battle at Parc des Princes as both teams push for a crucial victory.
Given the stakes, both Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille will need to deliver their best to secure the win.
The performance of Paris Saint-Germain will be crucial in this decisive match.
