Controversy in Le Classique

Ligue 1 returned from the international break with the marquee fixture of the season, Paris Saint-Germain at Olympique de Marseille, and as usual, there were plenty of fireworks.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I'm joined by Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise and long-time contributor Marc Damon to discuss PSG's 2-0 win over Marseille at the Orange Vélodrome. We also look ahead to Wednesday's clash against Stade Rennais in the Coupe de France and discuss the lead-up to the match against FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League.

We begin with Luis Enrique's starting lineup. Considering the injuries, did PSG play its best starting lineup possible? We also discuss Ousmane Dembélé's role as a false nine.

Late in the first half, Lucas Beraldo was sent off with a straight red after VAR took a closer look at his challenge on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. We discuss the incident and the referee who made the questionable decision.

To start the second half, Luis Enrique took off Randal Kolo Muani and whether the Frenchman has a long-term future at PSG.

Vitinha opened up the scoring in the 53rd minute with a brilliant run and a perfectly placed shot. Vitinha has consistently shown up when PSG needs him most throughout the season, and it was no different against Marseille. We highlight his performance and what he's meant for PSG this season.

In the 65th minute, there was more controversy as Kylian Mbappé was subbed off along with Dembélé. Both players left the pitch and went to the dressing room, but Mbappé, in particular, didn't look pleased with the decision. We discuss why Luis Enrique took off Mbappé and what it could mean for the rest of the season.

We wrap up Le Classique by discussing Gonçalo Ramos' goal, whether he'll stay at PSG beyond this season, and Gianluigi Donnarumma's incredible performance, in which he made 10 saves.

The show concludes with us previewing the match against Rennes this week in the semi-final of the Coupe de France and whether PSG is in a better position, having two more games to play than Barcelona before the two meet at the Parc des Princes on April 10.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.