Preview: Marseille vs Brest

The competition for European football spots is intensifying in France, with only four points between second-placed Marseille and seventh-placed Strasbourg.

Under Roberto De Zerbi, Marseille returned to winning form in their last match, securing a convincing 5-1 victory over Montpellier after a tough stretch.

Mason Greenwood scored twice, contributing to Marseille's second win in their last six games.

The other four matches in that period ended in losses, highlighting the challenges Les Olympiens have faced recently in the league.

While finishing second would mark a notable improvement from last season's eighth place, De Zerbi is seeking support from the club's board in the summer transfer window to fully commit long-term.

Amid internal player criticism and five defeats in their last eight matches, there are signs of unrest at the Ligue 1 club.

With nine losses this season, Marseille's recent struggles have put their strong campaign at risk.

However, after securing two wins in their past three league games, they are optimistic about regaining momentum and ending the season strongly to qualify for the Champions League.

Marseille netted eight goals in those two recent victories and rank as the second-highest scoring team in the division, with 62 goals in 30 matches, surpassed only by champions Paris Saint-Germain.

They aim to add more goals this weekend against Brest, who have the fifth-worst defense in the league.

Brest has conceded 49 goals in 30 games this season and managed only eight clean sheets.

This defensive weakness is a key factor in Brest missing out on European qualification as the season winds down.

After being a standout story in the Champions League group stage earlier, their hopes for another European campaign next year seem unlikely.

Those aspirations were further diminished by a 3-1 defeat to Lens last weekend, which allowed Lens to overtake them in the standings.

Brest has won just five of their 15 away matches this season, but facing a Marseille side that has dropped points in seven home games, they might see a chance to earn points.

Brest will seek revenge for their 5-1 loss to Marseille in the reverse fixture back in August at Stade Francis-Le Ble.

In that game, Greenwood and Luis Henrique each scored twice for Marseille in a dominant performance.

For the hosts, Ruben Blanco (ankle) and Chancel Mbemba are unlikely to play.

On a positive note, Leonardo Balerdi could return after recovering from a knee injury.

For the visitors, goalkeeper Marco Bizot is suspended due to yellow cards, and Abdoulaye Ndiaye is out after a red card against Lens.

Additionally, Justin Bourgault (foot) is sidelined for the rest of the season, while Bradley Locko, Soumaila Coulibaly, Ibrahim Salah, and Ludovic Ajorque are questionable for Brest.

Marseille possible starting lineup:

Rulli; Merlin, Garcia, Kondogbia, Murillo; Rongier, Hojbjerg, Henrique, Rabiot; Greenwood, Gouiri

Brest possible starting lineup:

Coudert; Haidara, Le Cardinal, Chardonnet, Fernandes; Magnetti, Lees-Melou, Camara, Pereira Lage; Ajorque, Sima