As the friendly match against Aston Villa approaches, which will take place on Saturday, August 9, at the Vélodrome Stadium, ahead of more than 62,000 spectators, Roberto De Zerbi is preparing an eleven almost final start. This match, considered as a final test before the start of the Ligue 1 against Rennes, is particularly significant because OM is facing a reputable opponent, a quarter-finalist in the last Champions League. The Marseille team, undefeated during its preparation, will benefit from this match to assess its strengths and weaknesses before the start of the competition. The integration of Timothy Weah, the new summer recruit, remains on hold, the American observing and adapting to the competition, while asserting his willingness to support the team even if he does not start all the encounters.

The OM coach should favour a team composition close to the one that will start the championship, with Mason Greenwood in attack and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg in midfield. Probable training includes Rulli as goaltender, Murillo, Baleard, Egan-Riley and Medina in defense, Gomes, Højbjerg and Rabiot in the middle, and Rowe, Gouiri and Greenwood in attack. For his part, Unai Emery, coach of Aston Villa, should align his typical team, with Ollie Watkins in the lead and Boubacar Kamara, back in the field, in defense. This meeting represents a major challenge for OM, which will have to prove itself against a leading opponent.

In parallel with these preparations, OM could consider a start for its Dutch goaltender, Jeffrey de Lange, who is in the LOSC’s target list. Limited to a lining role, his situation is compromised with few prospects of playing time in League 1. OM would ask €6 million for its transfer, which could potentially facilitate the arrival of Edon Zhegrova, a LOSC winger, which has been of interest to OM for several weeks. These discussions could be independent but mutually beneficial for both clubs.