Marseille president Pablo Longoria receives support from Emmanuel Macron

According to Téléfoot journalist Saber Desfarges, Marseille club president Pablo Longoria has received the backing of French president Emmanuel Macron, amid the Spaniard’s decision to remain in his executive position at the club.

Desfarges also reports that Longoria consulted with local authorities in the Bouches-du-Rhône region, as well as Marseille’s city prosecutor in the hours following yesterday’s announcement.

On Tuesday Longoria and three other executives had decided to temporarily step down from their duties after receiving heavy criticism from fan representatives (and reportedly threats) during a meeting on Monday. Owner Frank McCourt released a statement claiming that members of the club’s board were subjected to threats of violence – these are threats that fans have so far denied.

Meanwhile, Marseille prepare for a Clasico clash against Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes this evening (21:00 local time). It will be the second match with interim manager Jacques Abardonado in charge, following a 3-3 midweek draw against Ajax in the Europa League. Abardonado took charge following Spanish manager Marcelino’s resignation earlier this week after only seven matches with OM.

GFFN | George Boxall