Marseille Return to Ligue 1 Summit as Greenwood and Gomes Shine

Marseille returned to the Ligue 1 summit as former Manchester United stars Mason Greenwood and Angel Gomes found the net in a commanding 3-0 victory over Brest at the Stade Vélodrome on Saturday night. The win was a crucial boost for Roberto De Zerbi’s side after a turbulent period in both domestic and European competitions.

Mason Greenwood and Angel Gomes Key to Marseille’s Ligue 1 Revival

Mason Greenwood and Angel Gomes, central figures in Marseille’s attacking resurgence, delivered decisive moments that fired the club back to the top of Ligue 1. The opener arrived midway through the first half when Gomes lined up a free-kick just outside the box. His curling shot initially looked straightforward for Brest goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki, but a costly fumble saw the ball slip through his hands and roll across the goal line. Marseille’s early breakthrough lifted the energy in the stadium and set the tone for a dominant performance.

Eight minutes later, Marseille doubled their advantage following a clumsy challenge on Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, resulting in a penalty. Greenwood, displaying his trademark composure, slotted home his fifth Ligue 1 goal of the campaign as he sent Majecki the wrong way. The English forward’s clinical finish epitomized his growing influence at Marseille and provided his team with a comfortable buffer before halftime.

De Zerbi’s Tactical Flexibility Pays Off

Marseille maintained their control in the second half, dictating play and stifling Brest’s attempts to mount a comeback. The third and final goal came in the 82nd minute when Matt O’Riley whipped in a pinpoint cross from the right flank. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang rose highest to power a header past the helpless Brest goalkeeper, sealing a vital win for the hosts.

Roberto De Zerbi, who has faced mounting criticism in the French media after recent setbacks—including a disappointing Champions League defeat to Atalanta and a frustrating draw against Angers—was visibly relieved at the final whistle. The Italian manager praised his players’ energy and tactical discipline, noting, “We played with joy again. We moved the ball well, pressed high, and created plenty of goal-scoring chances. That’s my OM. We showed we can play really well, just like we did against Lisbon.”

Ligue 1 Table: Marseille Back on Top

This eighth Ligue 1 win of the season propelled Marseille one point ahead of rivals Paris Saint-Germain, at least temporarily. PSG retain the opportunity to reclaim first place with their upcoming match against Lyon, but Marseille’s return to the top is a statement of intent as the league approaches the international break.

De Zerbi now has a window to regroup and recharge his squad, with tough fixtures ahead—including an away clash against Nice on November 21 and a high-stakes Champions League home match versus Newcastle four days later. The Marseille manager’s ability to adapt tactically, switching formations in response to Brest’s halftime adjustments, was a key factor in the emphatic win.

Media and Fan Reactions to Marseille’s Resurgence

The dominant victory over Brest also served as a timely response to critics in the French press. Prominent pundit and former PSG winger Jérôme Rothen did not mince words earlier in the week, calling Marseille’s results “ridiculous” and questioning De Zerbi’s tactical acumen. Rothen criticized both the players and the club’s recruitment, specifically targeting seasoned stars who, in his view, have not delivered in big moments.

However, the performances of Greenwood and Gomes stood out as positive exceptions, with Rothen noting their crucial contributions alongside goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli. The energetic display against Brest offered a rebuttal to the narrative of decline, highlighting the quality and depth within Marseille’s squad.

Greenwood and Gomes: From Manchester to Marseille Glory

For Mason Greenwood and Angel Gomes, the victory over Brest was more than just three points; it showcased their adaptation and growth since leaving Manchester United. Both players have become integral to Marseille’s attacking identity, blending technical ability with a newfound maturity on the pitch. Their synergy has helped De Zerbi’s side weather recent storms and reignite their Ligue 1 ambitions.

What’s Next for Marseille?

With the Ligue 1 title race intensifying and Champions League ambitions still alive, Marseille faces a critical stretch after the international break. De Zerbi’s renewed tactical clarity and the confidence gained from this win will be vital as they prepare for a challenging schedule. Supporters will hope that the momentum generated by Greenwood, Gomes, and Aubameyang can propel the club toward further domestic and European success.

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Opinion: Marseille’s Timely Statement

In my view, this win was exactly what Marseille needed to silence doubts and restore belief among fans and pundits alike. The leadership shown by Greenwood and Gomes signals a new era for the club, and with De Zerbi’s tactical flexibility, Marseille look well-equipped to sustain their title challenge. Consistency will be key, but if they maintain this level, the Ligue 1 crown is within reach.