The friendly match between the Lazio de Rome and the Greek club of Atromitos in Rieti degenerated into a riot. The tension quickly rose, especially around Matéo Guendouzi, involved in two fights in the first period following a disputed action. This altercation triggered a general confrontation between the players of the two teams, requiring the urgent intervention of the technical staffs and the referee, who expelled Valentin Castellanos and Mansur. Warm-ups were also reported in the locker rooms, forcing law enforcement to intervene. Despite this tense atmosphere, Lazio finally won the game 2-0 thanks to the goals of Tjani Noslin and Pedro, but this training highlighted the nervousness of some players as they approached the championship recovery.
At the same time, the Olympique de Marseille is going through a period of internal tensions. Information revealed by The Team indicates a lively fight in the locker room following the defeat against Rennes. Jonathan Rowe, in particular, has been criticized by several executive players for a perceived lack of involvement. This frustration degenerated into a verbal altercation between Rowe and Adrien Rabiot, requiring the intervention of Roberto De Zerbi and Mehdhi Benatia to calm the situation. These tensions, occurring shortly after the start of the season, could have a negative impact on the rest of the championship and cause Rowe to leave the club.
These incidents are also highlighted by the sports consultants. Walid Acherchour, in particular, expressed doubts about the usefulness of some key players, such as Amine Gouiri and Adrien Rabiot, and asked questions about the real influence of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg in De Zerbi’s game system. His criticisms also extend to the club’s sports project, questioning the credibility of the collective system and the coherence of roles. One week before the Ligue 1 takeover, OM must manage these internal turbulences while meeting the expectations of an audience eager to see results.