[FM13] Avoiding the drop with Darmstadt

[Mark Heath]

thanks, I'm a bit annoyed to have missed out on Europe, but based on this season, we shouldn't have any problems qualifying next year

[Mark Heath]

Jun 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Elsewhere, Darmstadt have established themselves as a mid-table 2. Bundesliga team, while PSV won the league quite comfortably after a bit of a wobble shortly after I left. They've been raided for several key players since I left, but are rebuilding with a new formation.

The one positive from the last month or two is to see how well the 3-5-2 I used at PSV is working for us. It solves the problem of no good left-backs, and Vega could probably easily learn to play as a right winger. It means we could do with more strikers, although we have plenty of exciting young talents coming through and possibly another centre-back. We still also need a more defensively minded central midfielder as backup for Plaza.

The board are after European Qualification next season, which should be achievable on the evidence of this season. The wage budget is the same, which will not be an issue since many highly paid players will leave this summer. The transfer budget is the same as last year, not hugely generous but enough to fund a few decent reinforcements.

I have no idea how come Natale features nowhere in our best eleven. He was head and shoulders above everyone else last year despite only arriving in January.

We face a real fight on our hands to replenish our squad for next season. We've got at least 10 players leaving in the summer, possibly more, and top of the list is to get a new first choice goalkeeper. Then we need at least one more central midfielder, plus another striker and another centre-back if we are to play with 3 at the back.

Our £17m transfer budget will allow us to get a couple of decent players, but so far we have failed miserably on all our targets. RB Salzburg keeper Stefan Eder was my main target, but they want £16m for him. One possible alternative is 33 year old Brazillian Neto, who is available for £3m and should have at least two good seasons left in him.

[Mark Heath]

Jul 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Our first signing was 33 year old Brazilian keeper Neto from Corinthians for £3.5m, who will take over from Mandanda as our first-choice keeper. We'd rather have got someone a bit younger, but he gives us cover for the next few years.

Pejcinovic retired, and Mandanda, Ayew, Kana-Biyik, Kiss, Poli, Immobile and Maillard all left at the end of their contracts. And Oliveira returned to Roma after a season on loan. Of those players, it's only really Ayew that we wish had stayed on.

Our two new signings arrived, Jean Song and Amin Descazals, both young centre-backs on free transfers.

I was going to make an additional new signing at centre-back, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover that 18 year old Felix Aragon who spent the last season out on loan is looking quite a decent player. We're also going to be promoting 18 year old striker Cyril Feres from the youth team. Additionally, 18 year old defensive midfielder German Rubal will move into the reserves.

We've sold right-back Martin Montoya to Espanyol for £2.2m. Fullback Martin Gilbert will also go on loan to Valenciennes for the season.

We missed out on Marcos, the centre-back we were after, and on Thomsen, the Danish midfielder we wanted. At centre-back we may actually be OK, but central midfield is a weak area for us and if Leandro leaves we'll definitely need extra cover.

CFR Club (A, Friendly) 2-1 We had an exhausted looking squad, but Natale gave us an early lead with a lovely strike. They equalised midway through out half. Arapi restored our lead. We survived a late scare and held on for the win. However, our sixteen year old prodigy Schmitt got a straight red in injury time.

We've signed a striker, which I think was needed as we are playing with two up front, and our promising youngsters still need some time to develop. 24 year old Marcel Hale joins from Tottenham for £2.3m. He's a decent striker who can also play in central midfield if necessary. He's the first Englishman I've bought in my career.

We've also finally got a central midfielder in. 21 year old Peruvian Jorge Daniel Aguero had a £750K release clause, and looks like a real bargain. He's more of a deep lying playmaker, so offers us something different. I initially didn't one to go for him as he's not an EU national, and we're only allowed four in the squad, but we were able to move on right winger Leonardo for a cut down £2.1m as he doesn't really feature in our plans.

We've brought in another backup keeper. Mohamed Yildrim is a 22 year old Moroccan who was available on a free. He's only really in the squad for cases of emergency.

Ajaccio (A, Friendly) 2-2 With lots of players away on international duty, we can't really field the side we'd like. Yildrim and Hale get their first starts, and we're also giving another start to 16 year old Scmitt in midfield. Dufour hit the bar in a first half we controlled, but went behind in just before the break, but we equalised deep in first half stoppage time through Dufour. They retook the lead from a corner. We equalised through 16 year old striker Ntolla, who is the most exciting prospect in our youth academy.

Central midfielder Leandro has requested to stay, which is great news, as we'll need him for cover this season, and he should be getting more playing time than he did last year.

Charlton (A, Friendly) 3-0 Marin gave us an early lead with a great finish, and a wonderful individual goal from Natale late in the half made it two. Charlton did have two goals disallowed, and we hit the bar. Amore got our third late on from a corner.

Leicester (A, Friendly) 1-0 Neto is back from international duty and able to make his first appearance in goal. Frustratingly our three backup centre-backs are still all away at the U20 World Cup and could well all miss the start of the season. It was a tepid first half and we took the lead with a lucky own goal. We were on top but the poor quality of our finishing prevented us from wrapping up the win.

[Mark Heath]

Squad Analysis Jul 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Goalkeeper: New signing Neto (Brazil, 33) looks to be a quality replacement for Mandanda. His backup will be Benjamin Joly (France, 21) who had a run in the first team at the end of last season but never really impressed. Mohamed Yildrim (Morocco, 22) came in on a free just so we could have three keepers in the squad, but hopefully will not be needed.

Centre-backs: I'm gambling on the 3-5-2 formation working for us this season, so we will rely on rotating the six centre-backs we have in our squad. Nicolas Isimat-Mirin (France, 31) is a reliable option and Pio Amore (Italy, 20) was superb after signing from PSV in January. Lindsay Rose (France, 31) is the most experienced option for the third place. We haven't got much by way of experience in terms of backups. Our two arrivals on free transfers Amin Descazals (France, 19) and Jean Song (France, 19) alongside Felix Aragon (Spain, 18) whose returned from a season on loan looking much improved, will provide the backup.

Fullbacks: Not planning to use any. We've sent Martin Gilbert (France, 20) out on loan and Alain Gourrier (France, 21) will probably be loaned out or sold. And we can always call on Vega or Olsson if we really want to use fullbacks or wingbacks to help us hang onto a lead.

Right Wing: Cristian Vega (Argentina, 25) is one of the best players at the club, and naturally a right wing-back, so he'll need to learn a more offensive role. Nicolas Yupanqui (Peru, 25) will be his backup and is more of a traditional winger.

Left Wing: Santiago Subero (Colombia, 24) did really well last season to fight off several players to claim the left wing position for himself. Bruma (Guinea-Bissau, 28) will start off as backup. We also have Martin Olsson (Sweden, 35) who will provide a more defensive option when we need it. Finally, a number of our young and promising strikers are left-footed and may get the occasional appearance on the wing.

Central Midfield: Luca Natale (Italy, 27) was sensational last season and will be our main playmaker. Caio (Brazil, 26) is a good all-round midfielder who will partner him in the first team. Making up the trio will be Blazej Plaza (France, 25) operating as our defensively minded player. Oumar Aka (Ivory Coast, 29) is our main attacking minded backup, with Leandro (Brazil, 27) likely to deputise for Caio. For the defensively minded central midfielder, we can either call on Jorge Daniel Aguero (Peru, 21) who is more of a deep lying playmaker, or German Rubal (France, 18) recently promoted from our youth academy can do a job. Finally, Elias Schmitt (France, 16) is still very young but because of his huge potential we want him to get some playing time.

Strikers: Our first choice pairing will be Stephane Dufour (France, 25) and Besim Arapi (Switzerland, 23), both of whom had excellent seasons last year. For a decent backup we now have new signing Marcel Hale (England, 24). We're also looking to give Jonathan Marin (France, 18) some playing time as he has decent potential. We may also give a debut this season to Thierry Ntolla (France, 16) who is the most exciting prospect from our youth academy. Another from our youth academy is 18 year old Cyril Feres who is also a reasonable option.

Goals for this season:

1. Qualify for Europe. I think Champions League should be possible, given how well we played last season.

2. Improve finances. We're going to be staying well under wage budget this season, and I don't actually think we need to go crazy on big money signings, so I'm hoping by the end of the season our balance will be a lot healthier.

3. Get young centre-backs established. I'm not counting Amore who is already first team quality, but I'm hoping two out of Song, Descazals and Aragon break into the first team.

4. Give debuts to Schmitt and Ntolla. Our two most exciting prospects for the future - it would be great for them to get started with a few appearances this year.

[Mark Heath]

Aug 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

With both Mandanda and Ayew, leaving the club, we need to appoint new captain and vice-captain. Vega will now be club captain, with Dufour as vice-captain.

Bordeaux (A) 3-0 So the new season begins and we have Dufour suspended and Subero injured. There will be debuts for Neto in goal and Hale up front. We're also gambling on no defensive injuries this month as all our defensive cover is away at the U20 World Cup. Natale went on a superb solo run but pulled his shot well wide. However, at the next attempt he found the net. We played superbly throughout the first half, and early in the second we were ahead with Hale scoring a good debut goal. Arapi then added our third after good work from Natale. Neto marked his debut in goal with a fine one on one save. Overall it was a hugely encouraging start to our season.

We've made another signing. 24 year old Italian attacking midfielder Alex Bacchin will join us from Roma for what looks a bargain £1.8m. He's a very strong player, and could probably do a good job in all three of our central positions. Part of the reason for the deal is that Leandro will leave for £4.9m to Genoa, which I think is a good deal for a player not directly in our first team plans.

Troyes (H) 3-0 Dufour and new signing Bacchin will be on the bench for this game. A thunderous strike from Arapi gave us an early lead. Hale got our second after good work from Natale on the right. A fine save denied Arapi his second. He did get it though early in the second half with a close-range header. We brought on Bacchin for his debut. They had what looked like a late consolation goal disallowed, meaning we got top of the league on goal difference.

Striker Cyril Feres has been complaining already about lack of appearances, so will go for three months to our affiliate NEC.

Valenciennes (A) 0-2 We finally have two of our reserve centre-backs available now that France have been knocked out of the U20 World Cup. We were on top but in the first half created few real chances, and Arapi had a goal disallowed. Early in the second half they hit us on the counter. It got worse as they scored with their second effort on goal too. We looked toothless in attack and failed to find any way to get back into the game.

[Mark Heath]

Sep 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Lyon (H) 3-1 Lyon are top of the table, having beaten PSG already. We got off to a shaky start, but eventually got a grip on things and Vega gave us the lead. A wonderful goal from Natale put us two up. We lost Dufour to injury. The second half we struggled to keep possession and they pulled a goal back with 15 minutes to go. However, deep into injury time Hale scored to wrap up a fantastic win before the international break.

Angers (A) 2-1 Angers were beaten 10-1 by PSG in their last match, but they had previously won all three of their matches, so we can take nothing for granted. They were also the team that beat us 3-2 at the end of last season effectively costing us European football. Dufour is injured, and we're giving Bacchin his first start. Subero is also starting his first game following injury. Vega gave us the lead with a superb solo goal. They hit the bar with a corner, and then forced a good save from Neto. We were by no means the better team, but another good goal from Arapi put us two up. Bacchin came off injured. They pulled one back with 10 minutes to go, and we had to survive a late scare to hold on for the win.

We've appointed a new assistant manager, Douglas a Brazilian who picked up 1 cap in his playing career. It's the first step in a plan to slowly refresh all my backroom staff, who have largely remained in place since I joined the club.

Saint-Etienne (H) 6-1 Our opponents have had a very poor start to the season. Dufour is not quite ready to return from injury. We managed to hit the post and bar in quick succession. We piled on relentless pressure and eventual it paid off as Arapi broke the deadlock. It was more one way traffic in the second half, but we were wasteful in front of goal. Eventually Arapi added a second. From the restart we won the ball back and Natale burst through their defence to add a thiurd. Minutes later he scored another almost identical goal. We took the chance to give debuts to Descazals, Song and Aguero. They pulled one back from the penalty spot, but we restoerd our lead as Hale intercepted a poor backpass. There was even time for him to get another deep into injury time on the counter attack.

Lorient (A, League Cup 3rd Round) 1-2 Lorient are bottom of the table. We rotate the team a little, giving first starts to Song, Descazals, and Aguero. 16 year old Schmitt is also on the bench. Hale had an early goal disallowed. A red card for plaza midway through the first half made our task much harder. We brought on Natale with 20 minutes to go to see if he could produce a moment of magic, but it went to extra time. Dufour had a great chance but it hit the post. Then midway through extra time they finally took the lead. Five minutes later they added another. We missed another easy chance to get a goal, and with five minutes on the clock Dufour pulled one back. A really annoying way to go out of the cup.

Rennes (H) 4-0 The unwanted extra time in midweek leaves us with some tired players and the need to rotate. Amore headed us in front from a corner early on. Arapi headed in our second from a narrow angle. Amore then hit the bar with a header from a corner. Just before half-time Vega added our third with a lovely volley. Marin added our fourth. I took the opportunity to bring on 16 year old Elias Schmitt for his debut for the last half hour. Rennes scored a late consolation goal. We are second behind PSG, who are looking unstoppable this season and won their game 8-0.

[Mark Heath]

Oct 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Nice (A) 2-1 We're favourites against relegation candidates Nice. We were disappointing in the first half, failing to really trouble them, so we switched round the tactics a bit in the second half and looked livelier. A wonderful run by Vega set up Arapi to give us the lead. He was denied a second by a great save. Dufour eventually got our second. We looked to be coasting to victory but they pulled back a late goal to make it a little nervous. But we held on for another win.

We've been slowly refreshing our backroom staff, with a new goalkeeping and fitness coach as well as a new reserves manager.

Lille (H) 2-1 After a lengthy international break, we're back against one of the stronger sides in the league and feature Broich who used to play for me at PSV. We must play without our keeper Neto who got injured in training, so there is a chance for Joly to feature again. We had the better of the first half and Arapi gave us the lead, turning in Natale's free kick. We added a second through Dufour from the penalty spot. But once again, we conceded late on to set up a nervous finish. We had a big escape late on as they hit the bar in injury time. The win means we keep pace with PSG, who continue their own fantastic form.

Sedan (A) 1-0 We have Neto back in goal. We were very much on top and came close to taking an early lead. Vega went on a stunning solo run but was denied by a fantastic save. We took the lead early in the second half as Amore headed in a corner. In the end we saw out a fairly comfortable win, although we weren't particularly impressive going forwards. PSG came from behind to win again in their game, and Lyon and Angers also won, so it remains tight at the top despite our fantastic start to the season.

[Mark Heath]

Nov 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

My head of Youth Development has arranged for 16 year old Portuguese winger Pedro Sousa to join us for £725K from Guimaraes. He looks a decent enough acquisition.

Caen (A) 1-2 Caen are 19th in the league, but will have been encouraged by news this week that they are to be taken over by a consortium. We are without Isimat-Mirin, who has been having a fantastic season at centre-back. We give a start to Aguero in midfield. We were in control, but they took the lead heading in a corner. We wasted a great chance to draw level, but soon after a magnificent solo run from Vega provided an equaliser. Early in the second half Amore got himself sent off for a second yellow card. It seemed headed for a draw until in the last minute they snatched a winner. A dreadful performance, and one in which we weren't helped by some dodgy refereeing decisions. It means that PSG are now pulling away at the top of the table.

Toulouse (H) 1-2 Toulouse are having a great season and are in fifth. We have a bit of a crisis in defence - our first three are all unavailable, with Isimat-Mirin and Song injured and Amore suspended. It means a first start for 6' 6" centreback Felix Aragon. We got off to the worst possible start as they headed in from a corner. And then a couple of minutes later hit us on the counter with a ferocious strike from a tight angle. Arapi got clean through on goal but couldn't beat the keeper. Hale also got clean through on goal but also couldn't beat the keeper. Eventually Arapi pulled one back. In the second half they hit the bar. Dufour missed a glorious chance to equalise. Another dreadful result in a game we should have won easily. We slip down to third. Still we have a lot more points than we did at this stage last season, 27 after 12 games compared to 10 points from 12 games when I took over last season.

PSG (H) 3-1 Well this is hardly the fixture we wanted on the back of two bad performances. PSG have been unstoppable this season. We unfortunately wasted a good chance to score inside the first minute. A great save from Neto denied them a goal. We worked a great opening for Arapi but he was denied by a world class save from their keeper. They then took the lead with only their second shot of the match. But finally we found a way past their keeper, a goal created by lovely work on the wing by Vega and finished by Arapi. We were desperately unlucky not to take the lead as Hale headed against the bar, and Plaza had a great free kick well saved. But finally we got the goal we deserved, finished again by Arapi. We adjusted to be more defensive, but we were very much on top in this match and late on Arapi completed hit hat-trick. PSG threw everyone forward for a frantic final few minutes but we held on for a magnificent and important win. Unfortunately Dufour picked up an injury that will keep him out for 6 weeks.

Evian TG (H) 2-1 Our opponents are bottom of the league, with the European football they earned from their League Cup win last season. We have three players suspended and some tired legs on the bench. As expected we were on top but they stunned us by taking the lead midway through the half. Natale was really unlucky to hit the bar, but soon after Amore headed us level from a corner. I criticised the team at the break and midway through the second half, Arapi put us in front. We should have made more of our superiority but at least we got the three points.

Montpellier (A) 2-2 Montpellier are having a very poor season after beating us dramatically to European qualification last season. We give Aragon a start in defence, resting Amore, but otherwise field a full strength side. Caio gave us the lead, but they equalised with their first effort on goal. They Caio was sent off for a bad foul, leaving us facing an hour with 10 men. In the second half great work from Subero on the left set up our lone striker Hale to put us in front. Natale was really unlucky to hit the bar with a free kick. We seemed like we'd held on for a fantastic victory but in the fourth minute of injury time they were awarded a penalty which they converted. We were unfortunate not to win, especially as we'd had a penalty shout of our own turned down.

[Mark Heath]

Dec 2023 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Sochaux (A) 1-1 We've not had a long break, but today we play bottom of the league opposition. We must do so without our first choice strike partnership Dufour and Arapi who are both injured. We took the lead as Isimat-Mirin headed in a corner. But five minutes later we conceded a soft goal. Every game it seems at the moment we hit the bar, and this time it was Plaza striking the bar with a free kick. We made some changes with 20 minutes to go, but couldn't find a winner. Another very disappointing result.

A nice bonus from a player who was sold a few seasons back:

We've loaned striker Cyril Feres out to Angers on loan for the rest of the season. He's got potential, he just needs game time.

Lorient (H) 1-0 We're without Caio and Natale, both suspended and we're still without Arapi and Dufour up front. There was surprisingly good news yesterday in the league as Lyon and PSG, both of whom have been in incredible form both lost. A win today would see us make up some ground and avenge our defeat in the League cup earlier this season. Bacchin was unlucky to have a close range shot brilliantly saved, and we hit the bar for the fifth game running through Subero. I criticised the team at half-time and we took the lead early in the second half through Marin. For the last 15 minutes we gave 16 year old striker Thierry Ntolla his debut. We clung on for a narrow win.

Vannes (A) 2-1 We have back to back games against Vannes, first in the league, then in the cup, either side of the winter break. We have Arapi and Natale back, and with PSG held to a draw by Monaco, there is another chance to make up some ground in the league. Arapi marked his return to the team with his 15th goal of the season. Amore headed another from a corner. But a magnificent solo goal put Vannes back in contention. We then hit the post, keeping up our record of striking the woodwork in every game. Arapi pulled a shot uncharacteristically wide when through on goal. He missed again with a header from a few yards out. But we held on for a win that leaves us just two points off the top before the winter break.

[Mark Heath]

Jan 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

The transfer of 16 year old right winger Pedro Sousa for £725K from Guimaraes has been completed. He's left footed so we're hoping he can be of use on both wings.

We've also made a few bids on players whose contracts are coming to an end, and we're also after a left-sided wing-back, Mario Altube, who looks like he could be a similar player to Vega.

We've got the first confirmation through of a summer signing. 18 year old French defensive midfielder Rajab Bassani will join us in the summer on a free transfer from Toulouse, and will be the main backup for Plaza.

We've also confirmed the signing of left wing-back Mario Altube for £6.25m from Atletico Madrid. However, I've arranged for him to join in the summer when Olsson moves on.

Vannes (A, Coupe de France 9th Round) 4-1 We field a strong side for this cup tie, even though we are firm favourites. We took an early lead as Arapi crossed for Dufour. Arapi then added a second after Subero dispossessed a defender. He then scored a third. In the second half Aragon got his first goal for the club. They scored late on the counter attack.

We missed out on the centre-back we were after, so we will look again in the summer. However, we are bringing in another central midfielder on a free. 21 year old Russian Denis Pichugin will join on a free from Rostov. It may mean we allow Aka to leave in the summer.

My head of youth development continues to splash the cash on young Portuguese players. 16 year old attacking central midfielder Vitor Tinoco also joins from Guimaraes for £700K.

Monaco (H) 2-1 Assuming it will be very difficult to finish above Lyon and PSG, Monaco are our real challengers in the battle for Champions League football. We got off to the perfect start with Arapi scoring after just 14 seconds. Monaco hit the bar with a free kick, and then Bruma was guilty of a dreadful miss, before they drew level. Dufour then missed a glorious chance hitting the post after a defensive error. Really we should have gone in ahead. Arapi restored our lead early in the second half. Arapi had a goal disallowed in the closing minutes, but we held on for a fantastic win.

Stade Reims (A, Coupe de France 10th Round) 4-1 Lower league opposition means that just maybe we can go one step further than last year. We're playing in freezing conditions. Aka hit the post, but Hale turned the rebound in. They had a good chance to equalise and Dufour missed a one on one. But Hale took advantage of hesitation from their keeper to put us two up. Dufour got our third from a corner. In the second half, Song scored his first goal for the club from a corner. They scored a late consolation goal.

Troyes (A) 1-0 Games are coming thick and fast at the moment and the left wing is a particular problem area for us, meaning Olsson makes a start. We were poor in the first half and a sloppy pass from Plaza allowed them to score on the break. After an angry half-time team talk, the team responded really well. Dufour was denied a goal by an unbelievable save, and Arapi equalised soon after. We made some changes and substitute Marin put us in front after Arapi's shot was saved. It was end to end stuff in the closing minutes and Neto made a great save to ensure victory.

Valenciennes (H) 2-0 PSG and Lyon face each other today, so there is a chance of getting our noses in front in the title race today. Natale gave us an early lead with a free kick. Dufour then set up Arapi for our second. But Plaza was shown a straight red just before half-time. We managed to keep things tight in the second half and held on for another good win. PSG came from behind to beat Lyon, so we're second, but beginning to pull away from Lyon.

[Mark Heath]

Feb 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Lyon (A) 1-1 We've just moved five points clear of Lyon, but they are a very strong side, and we'll need to be at our best to avoid defeat. We played all the top teams at home in the first half of the season. They too line up with a 3-5-2, and so we're going a bit more conservative with wingbacks. Lyon had the best of the first half, but late on, Arapi crossed for Vega who forced the ball home at the second attempt. We were better in the second half, but had a big let-off ten minutes from time as they missed a great chance. But with five minutes to go, we conceded a penalty and they were level. Then in the last minute, they were awarded another penalty, but this time, Neto saved it to rescue a point.

Angers (H) 4-2 We started well, and Arapi fired narrowly after at the end of a sensational run. We conceded a soft goal midway through the half, but Amore equalised minutes later, heading in from a corner. Then a great solo goal from Natale put us in front. Arapi hit the post.

Natale scored with a free kick early in the second half. Vega should have extended our lead. Then a poor decision from Neto to come out for a long ball gifted them a way back into the match. But Marin restored our two goal advantage soon after. Overall a good attacking performance, but some concerning signs defensively. Unfortunately PSG won yet again, despite playing most of their match with 10 men.

Saint-Etienne (A) 3-2 We need to rotate a bit due to general tiredness in the squad. Arapi gave us the lead with another fine goal. He's averaged over a goal a game for us so far this season. We were in control but had a let-off as they hit the post. Frustratingly despite dominatng the first half, they drew level just before the break. Then we went behind early in the second half. We hit the bar, and then were awarded a penalty, which Caio converted. Then a few minutes later, good work from Bruma and Marin set up Arapi who restored our lead. There was great news the following day as Montpellier beat PSG, meaning we are now just one point off the top.

Lille (A, Coupe de France, 11th Round) 2-0 We’ve got another away draw in the cup, and this is a difficult one. We play with a rotated side. Natale missed a great chance to give us an early lead. We played will in the first half, but couldn't get in front. Early in the second half, a foul on Bacchin resulted in a penalty. Dufour's effort was saved but he put in the rebound. Then Marin scored on the counter attack. We were able to give Schmitt and Ntolla the final 10 minutes.

Montpellier (H) 0-0 A local derby, and we can take advantage of a fully fit squad. Dufour was denied by a brilliant save in a first half that we were completely on top in. Natale brilliantly burst into the box but pulled his shot wide. Plaza hit a thumping long-range drive that was tipped over the bar. In the second half it was more of the same frustration. Vega burst brilliantly into the box but pulled his shot wide. Montpellier didn't manage a single shot on goal all match, and we failed to convert any of our 21 efforts. A missed opportunity to put PSG under pressure. They won the following day, and are pulling away from us again now.

Rennes (A) 1-0 Dufour is injured, but apart from him, everyone else is available for this tricky away game. Hale gave us the lead, converting a good cross from Subero. It was a relatively quiet second half and we held on for a good win.

[Mark Heath]

Mar 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Nice (H) 3-1 We started the game well and were on top, but they had the best chance, with Neto making a great one on one save. We lost Natale to injury. Arapi missed a good chance. We took the lead thanks to a surging run from Bacchin who set up Arapi. Marin, who is looking like he could develop in to a really good player, added our second. Arapi then rifled in a third. We should really have added a fourth soon after. They pulled back a late consolation goal but is was a great win, and nice to see Bacchin have a really good game, as he has struggled since joining us. He'll be getting plenty of playing time, as Natale's injury will keep him out for six weeks.

Oumar Aka has asked to leave at the end of the season, which is fine as we have already arranged for a replacement for him. He's a decent player, but not really getting much playing time any more.

We've got 18 year old striker Jonathan Marin tied down on a long-term deal. He really looks an exciting prospect, and with Thierry Ntolla also looking like a top quality striker, we've got a wealth of options up front.

Lille (A) 3-1 A potentially difficult game, although we did OK against them in the cup recently. They took an early lead after good work from Broich, formerly of PSV, on the left wing. From the restart though, we drew level, with Arapi scoring yet another fine goal. Five minutes later he scored another, with a typical powerful finish. Then we hit them on the counter and Arapi completed his first half hat-trick. He was on fire and had a fourth disallowed before the break. We comfortably held on in the second half for our win. Elsewhere PSG came from behind to win 4-2. It will take something remarkable if we are to prevent them winning their 10th consecutive title this season.

Of our new youth intake, 14 year old defensive midfielder Cataldo Lionetti looks to have an exciting future ahead of him. And we have another centre-back too, 15 year old Alya Sylla looks good. And we have yet another promising striker. 15 year old Spaniard Pedro De la Red adds to the ever growing list of exciting strikers in our squad.

Sedan (H) 3-1 We have some tired players today, so we rotate the side a bit. Arapi had a good had a shot brilliantly saved in a first half we dominated. Then Arapi put us ahead. Aragon missed two really easy chances, and Bruma missed another. Despite five clear-cut chances we were just a goal up. Early in the second half a defensive mix-up saw us go behind. However, a great solo goal from Arapi restored our lead. Then Arapi completed a marvellous hat-trick. They created some chances late on to pull a goal back, but we held on for a win.

Toulouse (A) 3-0 Arapi is injured, but Dufour made our opening goal, hitting a fierce shot that was saved and Marin put away the rebound. Subero scored our second with a fantastic strike. Then a great ball from Caio released Marin who rounded the keeper to score our second. Dufour's bad luck in front of goal continues, with a great run, but hitting the post. The second half was quiet, and we keep our winning run going, although PSG show no sign of letting up.

We suffered a major setback in that our goalkeeper Neto is out injured for two months. It means we'll be calling on Joly to stand in for most of the rest of the season.

Caen (H) 4-0 We were on top in the first half but our finishing was poor. Eventually Arapi poked home from close range. Arapi set up Marin for our second. Arapi scored his second soon after to seal the win. He completed his hat-trick with five games to go. Another great win, but PSG won yet again, and we had more bad news on the injury front as Vega will miss a few weeks.

Angers (H, Coupe de France Quarter Final) 2-0 We finally have a good home tie in the cup, but cannot afford to play too strong a team as we have a massive fixture away to PSG three days later. We rest six first team players. Both teams had a good early chance to take the lead, but Marin put us in front with a lovely powerful strike. A second goal from Marin secured progression to the semi-finals, where we will face PSG.

PSG (A) 2-0 This is the big one. A defeat would effectively make PSG uncatchable, while a win would put us second on goal difference. Being without Vega means that we can't play as conservatively as we would like. We beat them at home, but away will be a big challenge. The first half was even, with neither side really coming close. PSG had the better of the start of the second half, but we came agonisingly close as Arapi worked space but hit the post. Minutes later we worked the ball to Yupanqui who gave us the lead. We had 15 minutes to hold on and switched to defensive wingbacks to hold on. We sealed the win as Arapi scored late on. We remain second, as PSG's goal difference is still a vast 20 better than ours, but we arguably have an easier end to the season as PSG are facing Barcelona next in the Champions league and also have a League Cup final against Lyon as well as the other cup semi-final against us.

[Mark Heath]

Apr 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

We're almost certain to finish at least second, but we mathematically cannot now finish below 3rd.

We've decided to keep Lindsay Rose on for one more season as a backup centre-back.

Evian TG (A) 1-0 In theory this is an easy game against bottom of the table opposition, but we have a lot of suspensions, as well as injuries to several key players, so we field a weakened team. Arapi got us in front early on, continuing his magnificent record of more than a goal a game this season. The home side barely threatened, but we weren't creating much either. In the end, we got the win, but PSG also won, so still no change at the top.

Sochaux (H) 1-0 We welcome back several players from injury and suspension today against struggling opponents. Dufour had a great chance to break his goalscoring drought, but headed over. We couldn't get anything on target in the first half. Early in the second half, another awful miss from Dufour squandered another really good chance. It looked like we were going to drop points, so we brought Dufour off for Marin, and he came up with the goods in the last minute to give us the win that keeps the pressure on PSG who play tomorrow.

Well we were hoping that they might slip up at some stage, but I didn't see this coming:

It means we're 3 points clear at the top of the table going into the final four games. Elsewhere PSV retained the Eredivisie again. Darmstadt also had a decent season, and are currently fourth in the 2. Bundesliga.

PSG (H, Coupe de France Semi-Final) 4-3 PSG have taken a few blows to their confidence losing 4 out of their last five, twice to Barcelona and once to us. With the exception of goalkeeper Neto, we can field a full strength starting eleven. We opt for the experience of Dufour up front despite his recent poor form. We hit the bar with a header from a corner early on. We also worked a fantastic opening for Caio who couldn't beat the keeper. But PSG were incredibly fortunate to score a complete fluke as a cross floated into the far corner. Early in the second half PSG were reduced to 10 men for a professional foul. Subero burst into the box but hit the post. Eventually we got the equaliser our complte dominance deserved, as Dufour rifled home a loose ball. But five minutes from time, they scored with their first actual effort on goal of the match to regain the lead. We seemed headed for the cruelest of defeats, but deep into stoppage time a long ball over the top released Arapi who took it to extra time. We pushed forwards in extra time, and Arapi finally got us in front with a superb individual goal. Then we hit them on the counter and Vega scored our fourth. But five minutes from time they scored yet again. We held on for a magnificent win, but really it should have been a lot more comfortable, and I think with Neto in goal it would have been.

We'll face Lyon in the cup final, who also beat PSG in the League Cup final, meaning that PSG have had a real collapse, losing 6 of their last seven.

However, despite their bad run, we cannot afford to be complacent, as they now arguably have an easier run-in than us, and with their vastly superior goal difference, only one defeat would hand the initiative back to them.

Lorient (A) 4-2 A tricky game, although Lorient are suffering with a number of injuries which should weaken their attack. They do have some very good defenders though which makes this a difficult challenge. We took an early lead as Subero crossed for Dufour to turn in. Subero then added a goal of his own after their keeper made a mess of claiming a corner. Caio really should have made it three early in the second half. But a goal from Natale effectively wrapped up the win and Caio added a fourth soon after. However, they pulled one back, hit the post and then added another, as we seemed to switch off defensively. We managed to stabilise for the last 10 minutes.

We play most of our games on a Friday, so once again we had to wait a day to see what PSG would do. They seem back to their usual form, winning 4-0 away from home. The title looks like it will go to the last day. We already have enough points to have won the title in any previous season.

[deltablue]

Good luck holding PSG off.

[Mark Heath]

thanks, to be honest wasn't expecting to be able to challenge them this season, but a great run of results and their surprising collapse gave us a great opportunity to prevent them from getting their 10th consecutive title

[Mark Heath]

May 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Vannes (H) 4-2 We have to make some hard decisions today as we have the French cup final later this week. We rotate as much as we dare. We got off to a disastrous start as they scored with their first attack. But Yupanqui responded instantly to level up. Bruma had a great effort well saved, and Arapi failed to take advantage of a great chance. We were awarded a penalty for a trip on Arapi, and Caio converted it. We then got ourselves two goals ahead as Amore converted from a free kick. We were in complete control, but midway through the second half they converted their second effort on goal of the match. We could breathe more easily 10 minutes from time as Hale restored our two goal advantage. It's another step closer to the league title, but we can’t help be concerned by the fact that Joly hasn't saved anything at all in the last three games.

Lyon (N, Coupe de France Final) 2-0 Lyon had a magnificent season, but fell off the pace recently. They will fortunately be without their star striker Yassine Benzia, but there is no shortage of talent in their squad, and on paper they have a stronger first eleven than us. They bought Veerman from PSV, who wants out because they haven't given him enough playing time. Our two absentees are Neto in goal who soon to return to training, and Plaza who is suspended. We opt for Dufour and Arapi up front, Aka stepping into the gap vacated by Plaza.

We started well and Subero was denied an early goal by a fantastic save. We enjoyed the bulk of possession took the lead as Natale went on a surging run and scored a great individual goal. Lyon created one good opportunity, but headed over from a narrow angle. Early in the second half they had a man sent off, but we lost Caio who came off injured. Our man advantage meant we looked very comfortable, and moments before the final whistle Arapi poked home the goal that sealed the win. It's Marseille's 13th time winning this trophy, which is more than any other side.

There was more good news as Monaco did us a huge favour, holding PSG to a draw:

It means we need one win from our last two matches to be crowned champions.

Monaco (A) 2-0 And this will be a very hard game to get anything at all out of. Frustratingly, Neto is not fit enough to start in goal, so Joly gets another game. Subero was denied an early goal by a fantastic save from their keeper. They hit the bar shortly before haf-time. Natale went on a superb solo run, but his effort was saved. In the second half, a great save from Joly denied them a goal, and then Subero scored one of our goals of the season, going on a surging run before smashing it into the far top corner. Then Arapi scored his 40th goal of the season to wrap up the win and secure the league title.

Our amazing end to the season creates a new record:

In the Premier League, Arsenal manager Stale Solbakken won the league, taking the title back from North London rivals Tottenham. Arsenal are also in the Champions League final. So it doesn't seem likely that the Arsenal job will become available any time soon.

Bordeaux (H) 2-0 Our final game of the season, and Neto finally returns from injury. We were in complete control and Arapi gave us the lead with goal 41 of the season. We hit the bar early in the second half, and then Arapi added our second. We were able to give Aka, Bruma and Olsson what could well be their final appearances for the club. Plaza managed to get sent off in the dying minutes. But we held on to end the season in style, with a record number of points in the league.

Arapi was the top goalscorer in League 1 with an incredible 37 goals.

[Mark Heath]

Jun 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

End of season stats:

Our players were runners up for various awards:

Arapi earned himself £275K for his goalscoring exploits:

[Mark Heath]

​finally found some time to do a bit more with this save...

Jul 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

After such a good season, we weren't really looking to shake things up too much. We'd already arranged three new transfers. 25 year old Spanish left wingback Mario Altube arrives for £6.25m from Atletico Madrid.

No surprises at who was fans' player of the year.

Our board are surprisingly lacking in optimism for next season:

We're well within wage budget, and have no big transfer plans, so this is fine.

We sold 29 year old winger Bruma to Tottenham for £9.75m. He never really fitted into our system, and that's a great price for him, and he is behind Subero and Altube for the left wing position now.

Oumar Aka, our 30 year old central midfielder was harder to get rid of, as we had to pay him some compensation, but he left for Zenit on a £5.25m deal.

36 year old Swedish left-back Martin Olsson has also left the club and will be retiring.

We extended the contracts of Dufour, Yupanqui and Caio, all of whom got a big salary boost in the process.

We brought in two free transfers to bolster the midfield. First of all 22 year old Russian central midfielder Denis Pichugin joins from Rostov to be the backup for Caio. And 19 year old defensive midfielder Rajab Bassani arrives from Toulouse as a backup for Plaza.

Arsenal Kyiv (A, Friendly) 2-0 We gave starts to new signings Altube, Pichugin and Bassani. Hale gave us the lead. 17 year old Pape Gueye added a second.

Bordeaux (H, Friendly) 1-1 We started brightly, but fell behind. In the second half Gueye scored his second of pre-season to level. We failed to convert some good chances to win.

Pio Amore won the European Championship with Italy, beating Holland 3-1 in the final.

Sparta Praha (H, Friendly) 3-1 Aguero managed to get himself sent off just 8 minutes in. We went behind soon after. Bacchin equalised, and Hale put us ahead with a superb solo goal. A long-range effort from Arapi sealed the win. Even with 10 men we should have won this by a much greater margin.

Nurnberg (A Friendly) 3-1 We were on top, but couldn't take the lead until we brought on our first eleven and Arapi gave us the lead. Nurnberg equalized immediately, but Arapi scored a last-minute winner, and Dufour scored in injury time.

I've decided to sort out the goalkeeping position now rather than wait another season, and so I've signed Mihajlo Prokic from Anderlecht. The 27 year old Serbian keeper joins for £7m, and looks every bit the equal of Neto. We also brought in 18 year old German keeper Cebrail Topal on a free transfer, who looks a good promising youngster.

[Mark Heath]

Squad Overview Aug 2024

GK Prokic (27 Serbia) - Looks a top qualitykeeper, and will be first choice this season

GK Neto (35 Brazil) - Still a good keeper, butperhaps beginning to decline. Will be backup.

GK Joly (22 France) - Decent enough for thirdchoice, but will be allowed to go if a decent offer comes in

GK Topal (18 Germany) - A promising youngkeeper who we signed to be backup for Prokic after Neto retires

DC Isimat-Mirin (32France) - a really good consistent performer. Hoping he continues toperform for a couple more seasons

DC Rose (32 France) - have kept him on for onemore year as backup while our younger centre-backs

DC Amore (21 Italy) - well worth the £11m wepaid for him, continues to improve, and looks to have a very promising future

DC Song (20 France) - displaced Rose as ourthird choice centre-back last season

DC Descazals - (19 France) struggled a bit atfirst, but time is on his side

DC Aragon (19 Spain) - played surprisingly welllast season, definitely has a future here

WBR Vega (26Argentina) - our club captain is naturally a wing-back but has adaptedto his new role on the wing quite well, scoring several goals and generallylooking lively

MR Yupanqui (26Peru) - A good attacking alternative to Vega, especially in games wherewe are the stronger team

ML Subero (25 Colombia) - Was excellent on theleft wing last season

WBL Altube (25 Spain) - A new signing thisseason for £6.25m. Gives us a more defensive option on the left hand side

MC Caio (26, Brazil) - a great all-rounder,will be first choice in central midfield again

MC Plaza (25 France) - Our main ball-winningmidfielder. We lacked backup for him last season, although Bassani willhopefully provide that.

MC Bassani (19 France) - Arriving as a freetransfer. A defensively minded midfielder to provide backup for Plaza

MC Natale (27 Italy) - had a wonderful seasonas our main playmaker, creating 15 goals and scoring 9.

MC Bacchin (25 Italy) - took us a while to workout how best to use him, but once I realised he could play Natale's position,we started to see the best of him

MC Aguero (22 Paraguay) - a decent firstseason, and looks like he's got some potential to fulfil

MC Schmitt (17 France) - was pleased to givehim a few matches this season. Is developing nicely

MC Pichugin (22 Russia). A free transfer.Intended to provide backup for Caio, replacing Aka.

ST Arapi (23 Switzerland) - well I certainlywasn't expecting 41 goals from him. A quite remarkable season. Will lead theline this season.

ST Dufour (26 France) - We've extended hiscontract, but he was disappointing last season

ST Hale (25 England) - Did a great job asbackup striker, although may soon be overtaken by more exciting young talentsfrom our reserves

ST Marin (19 France) - The surprise package oflast season, scoring a goal for almost every start, and looking like a naturalin the deep lying forward position

ST Ntolla (17 France) - did get his debut, butnot really enough time to impress. Hopefully will get more playing time nexttime round

[Mark Heath]

Aug 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

PSG (A, Trophee des Champions) 0-4 We fell behind to a really good goal. We were completely outplayed in the first half. We fell further behind in the second. It got worse as we conceded a third and then a fourth. A dreadful start to the season.

Saint-Ettiene (A, Ligue 1) 3-1 Natale gave us an early lead with a perfectly flighted free kick into the top corner. Arapi then added our second. Within seconds of the second half starting, Arapi scored another. They pulled one back from a corner.

Ajaccio (H, Ligue 1) 3-0 We took an early lead through an own goal. We hit the bar twice, before Natale extended our lead with another superb free kick. Caio scored a wonderful solo goal early in the second half.

Monaco (A, Ligue 1) 1-3 We took the lead as Natale's free kick hit the bar and Arapi put away the rebound. Prokic made two great saves to keep us ahead. Their keeper then made two great saves, before they found an equalizer. They then took the lead from a corner. They then bundled another in. Their keeper was in inspired form and produced two more great saves in a man of the match performance.

[Mark Heath]

Sep 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Lille (H, Ligue 1) 3-1 Dufour was denied an early goal by a great save, but scored soon after. A great save from Prokic kept us ahead. We conceded early in the second half. Hale, on as a sub, restored the lead. Hale pressured their keeper into a mistake late on.

Alex Bacchin has requested a transfer, unhappy that he's not getting enough game time. We'll also be selling Benjamin Joly in January.

Troyes (A, Ligue 1) 2-1 Hale gave us the lead with a great powerful finish. They drew level with an own goal, but we regained the lead through Hale again soon after. We should have won by more. Elsewhere Monaco beat Caen 9-0.

Tottenham (H, Champions League Group Stage) 2-1 We took the lead with a really well worked goal finished off by Dufour. But poor marking from a free kick saw us concede soon after. Dufour put us ahead again, and we saw out the rest of the game relatively comfortably for a great start to our group stage.

Vannes (H, Ligue 1) 3-1 Arapi gave us an early lead and Natale doubled it with a magnificent free kick. Prokic saved a penalty. They pulled one back early in the second half. Then they were awarded another penalty, but Prokic saved that one too. Altube then scored his first ever goal for the club.

Nancy (H, Ligue 1) 2-0 It took us a long time to get going, but eventually we carved out some good chances for Vega, the second of which he buried. Dufour extended our lead with a penalty early in the second half. We should have won this by a lot more, but it wrapped up an excellent month.

[Mark Heath]

Oct 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Real Sociedad (A, Champions League Group Stage) 1-0 A tough game against a side with a very strong squad. Both teams hit the woodwork in the first half. Plaza was sent off early in the second half, giving us a very difficult task, but late on Vega intercepted a poor defensive back-header and rounded the keeper to give us the lead.

Lorient (A, Ligue 1) 0-1 We were on top but Arapi missed a sitter. They took the lead with their first effort on goal in the second half. Then Aguero was sent off for an elbow. We couldn't find a way back, and with Lyon maintaining their 100% start to the season, every dropped point is concerning.

Valenciennes (H, Ligue 1) 5-0 Dufour gave us an early lead, and Subero added another soon after. Amore headed in our third from a corner. Marin then headed in our fourth before half-time. Dufour got another in the second half to round off a great result.

My former club PSV have been doing very well since I left, despite being regularly raided for their best talents.

Maribor (H, Champions League Group Stage) 5-0 It didn't take long for us to take the lead against our Slovenian opposition with Yupanqui turning into an open net. Arapi added our second. We were awarded a penalty which was taken by Caio but saved. But then Marin turned in our third. In the second half Marin arrived at the far post to score his second. Marin was unlucky not to be credited with a third after his shot was deflected in.

Bordeaux (A, Ligue 1) 3-1 We got off to a flying start, with Arapi giving us the lead. He was unlucky not to add a second soon after. Dufour extended our lead with a penalty. We conceded to set up a nervous finish, but Arapi scored late to seal the win. Elsewhere, Lyon's incredible start to the season continued with a 4-0 demolition of PSG.

Toulouse (H, Coupe de la Ligue 4th Round) 1-0 We were unlucky to be denied by the woodwork twice in quick succession. After dominating the first half, the breakthrough came early in the second with Hale giving us the lead.

[Mark Heath]

Nov 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Angers (H, Ligue 1) 2-2 We got hit early on the counter attack but a wonderful solo goal from Natale put us back on level terms. He then scored an even better solo goal. We conceded a penalty just before the break. We were frustrated in the second half, and fall further behind Lyon.

Maribor (A, Champions League Group Stage) 3-1 We rotated extensively, and Hale gave us an early lead. Arapi added a second, and Yupanqui made it three. We eased off in the second half, and they pulled one back. Elswhere in our group Real Sociedad thumped Tottenham 7-1.

Lyon (A, Ligue 1) 2-3 Lyon have won their first 11 league games this season, and are unbeaten in all competitions. Their strike force of Lacazette and Benzia have been in lethal form. We got off to a flying start as Dufour gave us the lead with the 100th league goal of his career. But Lacazette equalized and four minutes later scored another. We were back on level terms in the second half as Dufour capitalized on a defensive error. 10 minutes from time, Lyon regained the lead. Deep in injury time Vega was denied an equalizer by a spectacular save. This result casts serious doubt on whether we can successfully defend our title.

Montpellier (H, Ligue 1) 3-1 We got off to a terrible start, conceding in the first minute. However, Arapi equalized a few minutes later. We had a goal disallowed just before half-time. Arapi put us ahead early in the second half. Marin secured the win.

Tottenham (A Champions League Group Stage) 1-5 We need one point from our final two games to be sure of progressing, but we must rest key players as we have big games coming up soon. Hale missed a great chance to give us the lead against his former club. Then Spurs went in front. We were struggling to and soon conceded again. Hale hit the post. Bacchin pulled one back with a fantastic free kick, but we conceded again soon after. We then completely collapsed and conceded two more late on.

PSG (A, Ligue 1) 3-1 We kept them very quiet in the first half and were very much on top. But early in the second half, they took the lead. However, we equalised almost immediately from the restart through Arapi. Hale put us in front with 10 minutes to go, and from the restart we hit them on the counter and Caio wrapped up the win. There was great news from Lyon - as they dropped points for the first time this season, losing at home to Caen, but we remain a long way behind.

Lyon (H, Coupe de la Ligue Quarter-Final) 0-1 We had the better of a fairly quiet first half, but they hit us on the counter in the second. We were very unlucky to lose this one.

Toulouse (H, Ligue 1) 1-0 Lyon dropped a couple more points in the league, so this was another great chance to close the gap a little. We completely dominated the first half, but it wasn't until an hour on the clock that we took the lead through Arapi. Natale then got sent off. We missed a great chance to wrap up the win soon after, but held on to close the gap on Lyon to 6 points.

[Mark Heath]

Dec 2024 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Real Sociedad (H, Champions League Group Stage) 5-0 Despite winning our first four group matches, we could still miss out on the knockout stages, as a defeat would mean three teams end on 12 points. We got off to a great start with Altube putting us ahead. Then a fantastic goal from 18 year old Schmitt from the edge of the area made it two. We were in complete control, and Marin made it three inside 20 minutes. A solo goal from Natale meant we were out of sight inside the first half hour. He scored another solo goal just before the break. It could have been more as Arapi hit the bar but in the end we were able to coast to victory.

Nantes (H, Ligue 1) 2-0 We were dominant early on, but spurned a whole host of great chances. Bassani gave us the lead with a free kick - his first goal for the club. Amore added our second, poking home a loose ball from a corner. We were in control from beginning to end, and should have won by a much greater margin.

Nice (A, Ligue 1) 5-0 A great solo goal from Yupanqui gave us the lead against the bottom of the table side. Natale added to our lead with another solo goal. Then Caio finned off a well worked move. Dufour made it four and Hale got a fifth late on. Prokic made a great save to record his fourth clean sheet in a row.

Rennes (A, Ligue 1) 2-1 Subero gave us the lead from a corner. We were in control and had a goal ruled out for offside. Marin got our second. But out of nowhere, Rennes pulled one back. A long-term injury to Vega leaves us without much cover on the right.

Caen (H, Ligue 1) 3-0 A magnificent solo goal from Yupanqui gave us an early lead. Dufour added a second soon after. Then another fine goal from Yupanqui extended our lead further. Our day was made even better as Lille beat Lyon, allowing us to draw level on points with Lyon.

Ajaccio (A, Ligue 1) 3-0 Dufour gave us an early lead, and Arapi extended it soon after. In the second half, Dufour got the goal we needed to edge up to the top of the table on goal difference.

[Mark Heath]

Jan 2025 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

We've sold Benjamin Joly to Panathinaikos for £1.3m

Arsenal, who won the League and Champions League double last season are having a terrible season. They were down to 16th at the new year, but manager Solbakken retains his job, and maybe bought himself some time by beating league leaders Man City 6-2.

Lyon (H, Coupe de France 9th Round) 3-1 It's Lyon yet again! Arapi gave us an early lead and added a second midway through the half. He completed his hat-trick early in the second half. Lyon pulled one back with 15 minutes, but the win was never in doubt.

Monaco (H, Ligue 1) 2-0 We survived an early scare, and Natale hit the bar with a free kick. Dufour gave us the lead with a great solo goal. He missed a great chance to extend our lead soon after. Monaco keeper Prateli made some magnificent saves to keep them in the match but an injury time goal from Dufour sealed another very important win in the league.

Libourne (A, Coupe de France 10th Round) 2-0 We piled on the pressure but eventually Bacchin put us in front. Dufour added a second.

Lille (A, Ligue 1) 0-0 This is actually our last away League game of the season against one of the top five. It was a quiet first half. We had a goal disallowed early in the second half. A point was an acceptable result from this game although Lyon returned to the top.

Troyes (H, Ligue 1) 1-0 Marin gave us the lead in a first half we dominated but didn't create many clear openings. We failed to add to our lead, but Troyes never got anywhere near our goal.

[Mark Heath]

Feb 2025 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Vannes (A, Ligue 1) 1-0 It was a disappointing first half performance in which we were on top without creating enough chances. Rose gave us the lead with his first ever goal for the club. Lyon drew, so although we remain third, we are just a point off the top.

Nice (H, Ligue 1) 5-0 Marin headed us in front from a free kick. Amore headed in our second from a corner. And our third also resulted from a corner with Dufour poking home. In the second half, Marin made it four, and then completed his hat-trick. The win temporarily at least moves us top of the table.

Nancy (A, Ligue 1) 3-0 Away to the bottom side, we started brightly, and Arapi gave us the lead on his return from injury. Their keeper was in inspired form, and kept them from sinking without a trace, but eventually Caio made it two. Vega scored our third. We should really have scored more, but there was great news elsewhere as Lyon and PSG both lost, putting us two points clear at the top of the table.

Dortmund (A, Champions League 1st Knockout Round) 0-0 A tough draw against the German champions, although this season they are not performing too well in the league. We had the better of a relatively quiet first half. Vega got sent off in injury time. Dortmund never threatened at all.

Lorient (H, Ligue 1) 3-0 It was a frustrating first half, with many chances wasted. Eventually Dufour put us in front. A great solo goal from Arapi doubled our lead. Arapi added our third. We were awarded a penalty and Arapi missed his chance to complete a hat-trick.

[Mark Heath]

Mar 2025 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Valenciennes (A, Ligue 1) 1-1 Can we make it 10 in a row without conceding? We were on top in the first half but couldn't find the breakthrough. It was more of the same in the second half, as we dominated posession and created chances, but fell behind to a rare Valenciemnes attack. We hit post and bar before Arapi finally drew us level. In the 89th minute we were awarded a penalty, which Dufour smashed against the bar, and then hit the rebound straight at the keeper. In injury time we hit the post yet again. A game we should have won comfortably. We remain top, but only by a point.

Bordeaux (A, Coupe de France 11th Round) 2-1 We fell behind to an early free kick, but took control of the game and Amore equalised shortly before half-time. We took the lead as Defour reacted first after Vega's shot hit the bar. Bordeaux threw everyone forward, but we held on to reach the quarter finals.

Was offered a Premier League job, but moving to a relegation battler isn't particularly appealing at the moment.

Bordeaux (H, Ligue 1) 2-1 Lyon beat PSG yesterday to move above us. We took an early lead through Marin. A defenisve mistake gifted them an easy equalizer just before half-time. Arapi gave us the lead. Descazals was shown a second yellow leaving us to see out most of the game with 10 men. A vital win that keeps our noses in front in the title race.

Dortmund (H, Champions League 1st Knockout Round 2nd Leg) 4-0 After playing well in the away leg, we went with a positive approach to this match. Dufour gave us the lead midway through a quiet first half. Song then bundled the ball in following a corner. In the second half we missed two glorious chances to seal the win. But Dufour eventually got our third, and completed his hat-trick five minutes from time.

Angers (A, Ligue 1) 2-1 An awful mistake by Prokic gifted them an early goal. It took a magnificent strike from Arapi to get us back on level terms. Amore headed us in front from a corner. We held on for a scrappy win that sees us keep our noses ahead at the top of the table.

Dufour made his international debut for France, scoring two goals in a 4-0 World Cup qualifier win against Israel.

Lyon (H Ligue 1) 3-0 A potential title decider, as Lyon are just a point behind us. Natale hit the bar with a free kick. We dominated possession, and Subero gave us the lead with a great solo goal. Vega added our second early in the second half. Then Arapi made it three. A surprisingly comfortable win. It came at a cost though - Amore picked up an injury that sees him miss the next 6 weeks, leaving us light on cover at centre-back. PSG also lost, so it was a big step forwards in the title race.

[Mark Heath]

Apr 2025 - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

PSV (A, Champions League Quarter Final 1st Leg) 0-0 Of all the teams to draw, it ends up being my old club PSV, who are flying high at the top of the table and looking set to win the league again. A lot of changes in personnel have taken place since I left, and it's a shame Amore misses out on playing his former club. Gege, Nuytinck, Salamon, Hiljemark, van Putten, Valente, Schalk and Locadia all remain regulars in the team since my time there.

It was an evenly matched first half, and Dufour missed a great chance to give us an away goal. PSV missed a glorious chance 10 minutes from time, and then we went down the other end, but Arapi missed an equally good chance. A great save late on from Prokic ensured it ended goalless.

Montpellier (A, Ligue 1) 3-1 With fixtures coming thick and fast, we had to make a lot of changes for this game. Aragon headed us into an early lead from a corner. Marin should have increased our advantage, and we were made to pay as they equalised soon after. We were looking sloppy but regained the lead soon after as Aragon headed in another from a free kick. Marin then missed another golden chance to score. In the second half, Aguero hit the post. Eventually we got two ahead through Arapi. We then had a goal disallowed. There was great news elsewhere as Lyon lost to Rennes, meaning we move 7 points clear at the top.

PSV (H, Champions League Quarter Final 2nd Leg) 4-0 Possibly the biggest match of my managerial career so far, and certainly one we ought to win. After a very quiet opening period, Arapi had a goal ruled out. But Subero gave us the lead soon after. A free kick into the top corner from Natale extended our lead. Natale and Caio were both denied by brilliant saves from Zoet. Vega made it three early in the second half, and then Dufour added our fourth. A completely dominant performance.

PSG (H, Ligue 1) 2-0 The last really big league match of our season, against PSG who we are 8 points ahead of. We took the lead with Arapi finishing off a lightning move up the pitch. We kept PSG from creating any real chances. Natale extended our lead with a great free kick. The win leaves us looking more than likely to wrap up a second consecutive title, baring a disaster in our last five league games against mid-table opposition.

Brest (H, Coupe de France Quarter-Final) 4-0 A relatively kind draw at this stage of the competition, allowing us to rest players ready for the champions league. Subero gave us an early lead, and scored another midway through the half. Marin made it three before the break. Schmitt made it four with a late goal.

Roma (A, Champions League Semi-Final 1st Leg) 1-3 We couldn't have asked for a tougher draw. Roma are arguably the strongest team left in the competition, and are clear leaders in Serie A, with a squad filled with top quality players in all positions. French striker Jose Landre has scored 33 goals for them, and Mexican midfielder Cesareo Luna is their most creative player, along with left winger Gianluca Caprari. We go into the game without Amore and Arapi.

We tried to keep it tight, but fell behind early on, and conceded again soon after. We conceded a third in the second half. Marin got through on goal, but a great save denied us the away goal we craved. But in the last minute, Dufour pulled on back, leaving us with at least a glimmer of hope.

Tolouse (A, Ligue 1) 3-1 Aragon gave us the lead from a corner. Toulouse caused us some problems, but Prokic was magnificent, and made several saves and even kept a penalty out. Then Marin extended our lead and scored another before half-time. Tolouse eventually got back into the game with a penalty.

Roma (H, Champions League Semi-Final 2nd Leg) 4-1 With a two goal deficit to make up, we opted for a positive formation. Prokic made a great save early on to keep us in it, as Roma started the stronger of the two sides. They then had a goal ruled out for a foul. Two minutes later Subero broke down the left wing and crossed for Dufour to put us right back in contention. A great ball over the top set Arapi free, but he disappointing dragged his shot wide. We grew in confidence and Arapi hit the bar. Arapi got through on goal again, but his effort was saved.

We went into the second half knowing one goal would be enough and five minutes in, Arapi rifled the ball into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. But disaster struck as Roma scored an away goal with 25 minutes to go. It was an incredibly open game, and Arapi scored a third to level the tie up on aggregate again. Two minutes later, incredibly, we scored again, with Vega setting up Dufour. We set up defensively and saw it out for a quite remarkable turnaround, and we reach the Champions League final where we will face Arsenal.

[deltablue]

It looked hairy for a while but you're comfortable now.

[Mark Heath]

yeah, Lyon were looking invincible early on this season

[Mark Heath]

May 2025 (Part 1) - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Nantes (A, Ligue 1) 1-1 We rest some more players due to fixture congestion as we look for the first of two more wins that would seal the title. We fell behind, but Altube arrived at the far post to convert a cross and draw us level again. We were disappointing in the second half, and had to settle for a point.

Monaco (A, Coupe de France Semi-Final) 3-1 A tricky semi-final tie, but we got off to a fine start with Dufour putting us ahead. Both teams then had great chances to extend their lead in a very open game. Monaco drew level before the break. We took the lead early in the second half as Aragon headed in a corner. We wrapped up the win in injury time with Dufour sealing our place in the final.

Rennes (H, Ligue 1) 3-1 Lyon are keeping the pressure on us, and are two points behind us, so we have little room for slip-ups. However, a horrendous mistake from Prokic gifted them a goal. We drew level as Song turned in the rebound after Aragon headed against the bar. I laid into the team at half-time and we came out looking better, with Marin firing us in front, and Arapi putting away a great solo effort. We inch closer to sealing the title.

Caen (A, Ligue 1) 1-1 We knew a win would seal the title, and half an hour in, Arapi gave us the lead. But midway through the second half, Caen threatened to spoil the party with an equalizer. We couldn't grab a winner, and the title goes down to the final match of the season.

Saint-Ettienne (H, Ligue 1) 4-0 We only need a point to secure the title. With Lyon having an easy home game, though, defeat would spell disaster. Dufour hit the post early on. Our nerves were eased as Natale went on a superb solo run to put us in front. He then went on another run and was brought down in the area. Dufour converted the penalty and we knew the title was heading our way. Almost immediately from the restart Subero extended our lead further. Natale scored a wonderful fourth just before half-time. Now of course we wanted to start resting players for the Champions League final. We coasted to victory and wrapped up the League title despite Lyon winning their game 4-0 too.

[Mark Heath]

May 2025 (Part 2) - Olympique de Marseille - Ligue 1

Arsenal (N, Champions League Final)

Arsenal are the holders of the Champions League, but are at the end of a very poor season. A terrible run of form midseason left them so far behind that despite turning things around they could only finish 6th. Arsenal play a 4-4-2 formation Arsenal's strike force features home-grown Gavin Mosely alongside Daniel Latuheru who I sold them from PSV for £20.5m. Both are prolific, and they also have Greek striker Jeton Hoti. Arsenal also have world class Chilean left winger Pablo Valladares.

We're without Caio who's suspended, but otherwise we field a strong side, opting for more defensive wingers.

We came close early on, as Plaza hit a spectacular long-range effort tipped over the bar by Arsenal keeper Szczesny. But Arsenal took the lead as their centre-back Charnock headed in from a corner. We were on top though and drew level as Natale played in Dufour who did well to square it for Arapi. Arsenal were only really threatening from corners. Natale hit some great free kicks that were well saved. Arapi nearly got us in front just before half-time.

In the second half, Arapi came agonisingly close with a shot that cannoned back off the post. Down the other end Prokic made a great reflex save to keep us from going behind. Arapi was looking excellent, and went on a great runand fed Dufour who pulled his shot wide. But then Vega burst into the box and finished low into the far corner to put us in front. A minute later, Arapi had a goal ruled out for offside. Arsenal pushed forwards, and Song had to make a last-ditch saving tackle to keep us ahead. With 10 minutes on the clock, Altube broke into the box, and was brought down. Dufour made no mistake from the penalty spot, and we knew the cup was ours.

Result: (1-1) 3-1 Arapi (21), Vega(58), Dufour (81 pen); Charnock (15)

The final Ligue 1 games were played, with our place at the top of the table already confirmed.

The title win also sets a new record.

Natale had another great season

And a good season for our keeper:

It was good news all round for my former clubs. PSV retained the Eredivisie yet again, and Darmstadt were finally promoted back to the 1. Bundesliga.

Now all that remained was to see if we could complete the treble.

PSG (N, Coupe de France Final) 2-1 We were on top and should have taken the lead when Arapi got away on the counter. Dufour gave us the lead just before half-time. PSG failed to register a single effort on goal until an hour in when they equalized from a corner. In the 89th minute Arapi broken in an snatched a dramatic late winner.

[deltablue]

Good to see all your clubs doing well.