As fans express their frustration, Marseille aims to snap a four-game streak without wins by facing struggling Metz at the Orange Velodrome this Friday in Ligue 1.
Marseille’s difficult season worsened after a 1-0 loss to Lyon, while Metz also faced a setback with a 2-1 home defeat to Lorient.
Match preview
Marseille began the year by narrowly defeating Thionville Lusitanos in the Coupe de France, but that victory remains their sole win in 2024. Following draws with Strasbourg and Monaco, they were knocked out of the Coupe de France by Rennes and showed no threat in their recent defeat to Lyon.
Despite Lyon’s struggles, Alexandre Lacazette’s goal led them to victory over Marseille, who failed to challenge Lyon’s goalkeeper throughout the match.
After losing their unbeaten streak in Ligue 1, Marseille now sits in eighth place, trailing behind Lille and Lens, and has faced pressure from supporters’ group leaders in a recent meeting.
Metz, on the other hand, lost their sixth home game of the season to Lorient, deepening their crisis. Despite a brief fightback, they couldn’t avoid extending their losing run to eight matches across all competitions.
Currently just above the relegation zone, Metz’s attack has been weak, scoring only three times during their losing streak.
The last encounter between Marseille and Metz ended in a draw, continuing a series of stalemates. However, Metz hasn’t won at Marseille since the 2004-05 season.
Marseille Ligue 1 form: W W D D D L
Marseille form (all competitions): D W D L D L
Metz Ligue 1 form: L L L L L L
Metz form (all competitions): L L L L L L
Team News
Marseille welcomes back most of their Africa Cup of Nations players, except for Chancel Mbemba. Injuries have hit their midfield hard, with Valentin Rongier, Geoffrey Kondogbia, and Jordan Veretout sidelined, though the latter two might return for this match.
Ismaila Sarr, despite a hand injury, is expected to play, potentially replacing Iliman Ndiaye. Bilal Nadir and Amir Murillo are out with injuries.
Metz has their AFCON players back, with Ablie Jallow possibly returning to action. The team has no reported injuries.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Marseille: (4-3-3)
Lopez;
Clauss, Gigot, Balerdi, Merlin;
Veretout, Kondogbia, Ounahi;
Sarr, Aubameyang, Harit
Metz: (4-3-3)
Oukidja;
Colin, Traore, Cande, Udol;
Jacques, N’Doram, Camara;
Asoro, Mikautadze, Lamkel Ze
Prediction: Marseille 2-0 Metz
Despite recent draws, Marseille is expected to secure a win against Metz, who has struggled offensively. Marseille should manage to score and earn a much-needed victory.