As the crucial match against Real Madrid approached, Leonardo Balerdi, captain of the Olympique de Marseille, faced with determination. Aware of the increased competition in defence with the arrival of Pavard and Aguedd, he focused on the potential of the reinforced team. Balerdi sees these new players as a lever of collective progress, saying he will benefit personally. This attitude demonstrates a great spirit and commitment to the team project, particularly important in the Champions League where solidarity is paramount. The lack of Aguerd for the match against Real Madrid is a hard blow for OM, forcing the coach to review his defensive plans and testing the depth of the squad.

At the same time, Paris Saint-Germain is going through a period of medical concern, with several injuries before its next major matches. Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kang-in Lee and Lucas Beraldo left the wounded field in the last match, in addition to the already notable absences of Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué. This situation could deprive the PSG of five key players for its next two crucial events, notably the Champions League against Atalanta and the shock against the Olympique de Marseille in the championship. The management of the workforce is becoming a real challenge for Luis Enrique, stressing the importance of rigorous planning and constant adaptation to hazards.

Finally, the President of Olympique de Marseille, Pablo Longoria, spoke about the turbulent departure of Adrien Rabiot and Jonathan Rowe. He stressed the need to step back and focus on a long-term vision, saying that he had no regrets about managing this situation. Rabiot and Rowe found themselves face to face in a Serie A match, Rabiot imposing himself as a key element of his new club in Milan, while Rowe had a more discreet role. This meeting symbolizes a new stage in their respective careers, far from Marseilles, but attesting to their common passage to the club.