Luiz Felipe Ramos returned to the field with the OM reserve team after several weeks of absence due to a muscle injury. This news should delight Roberto De Zerbi, who could quickly reintegrate the Brazilian central defender into the professional team. Luiz Felipe played in his last game with OM’s Pro 2 team, a classic stage in the recovery process after injury. Aligned to regain his sensations, he delivered a reassuring performance and showed positive signs of an imminent return with the pros.

With a high-voltage end of the season and several absences or meforms in the defensive sector, Roberto De Zerbi could quickly appeal to Luiz Felipe. The Marseille coach needs reliable and experienced forts to hold on to the Champions League race.

Questioned about a possible return of Léonardo Balerdi, touched recently, the Italian technician made himself clear: “I want him to play next week!” A statement that suggests that Argentina’s central defender is close to a return to competition, probably for the semifinal return of Europa League against Atalanta or in the next Ligue 1 match. Balerdi is an indisputable holder this season and remains an important part of the Marseille rearguard.

Concerning Luiz Felipe, also injured, De Zerbi preferred to temper: “Start the game, I don’t think…” The Brazilian defender, recruited this winter, seems to be still running out of pace to claim a position against Montpellier. If it could be included in the group, an entry into the game remains more likely at this stage of its recovery.

On the eve of a crucial event in the race for Europe, these two expected returns in the coming days are encouraging signals for an OM seeking defensive stability.