Marseille players, De Zerbi, staff and ultras hold 90 minute meeting ahead of decisive Rennes match | OneFootball

Marseille held a 90-minute meeting with representatives from supporters’ groups on Monday evening, with players, staff and club officials gathering at the Robert Louis-Dreyfus Training Centre ahead of Tuesday’s Coupe de France tie against Rennes.

RMC Sport report that around 50 supporters attended the discussion, which passed without tension or confrontation, according to those present. The meeting was organised with the aim of restoring unity at a key moment in the season, following a run of inconsistent results.

Almost the entire first-team squad was present, alongside head coach Roberto De Zerbi, his technical staff, and senior executives including president Pablo Longoria and director of football Mehdi Benatia.

Club officials reiterated their belief in the quality of the squad, while acknowledging frustration at the team’s irregular performances. The importance of securing qualification for a second consecutive Champions League campaign was also underlined as a strategic priority.

Several senior players addressed the supporters, including captain Leonardo Balerdi, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Geoffrey Kondogbia and Timothy Weah. The players committed to giving a maximum effort in the Coupe de France fixture.

De Zerbi also spoke directly to supporters, insisting on his strong personal investment in the project at Marseille. While he said he understood the anger felt by supporters, he admitted he could not fully explain the side’s inconsistency this season. The Italian coach nonetheless welcomed the opportunity for direct dialogue and took encouragement from assurances that the Vélodrome would back the team.

Supporters confirmed their intention to support the team against Stade Rennais, but delivered a clear message regarding the importance of the result. Some concerns were raised about the team’s mentality and certain tactical decisions, though the exchanges remained measured throughout.

Approximately 60,000 spectators are expected at the Vélodrome on Tuesday. While the meeting was described as calm and constructive, the message from the stands was unambiguous: defeat against Rennes is not acceptable.GFFN | George Boxall