Marseille stumble as Benatia slams “scandalous” display in Lorient defeat

Marseille’s push for next season’s Champions League suffered a major setback with a 2‑0 defeat at Lorient, prompting an explosive reaction from sporting director Mehdi Benatia. Goals from Panos Katseris and Bamba Dieng left OM at risk of slipping further behind in the race for France’s top three, with Lille, Lyon and Rennes all capable of overtaking them by the end of the weekend. Benatia, who will leave the club at season’s end, tore into the squad after a third loss in four matches, calling the performance “a scandal.”

He criticised the players for losing duels, lacking intensity and allowing Lorient, with nothing left to play for, to dominate. Benatia said the team showed no anger or accountability, noting the dressing room remained “spotless” despite the defeat. Marseille, currently a point behind third‑placed Lille, now face the real prospect of missing out on Europe’s premier competition.