[Saba Sports News] According to French media reports, after suffering a crushing 0-3 away defeat to Nantes last Saturday, Marseille players were ordered to stay overnight at the training centre as part of an extended closed-door training camp. Reports state the decision has the backing of Marseille owner Frank McCourt. Previously, following a 0-2 loss to Lorient, club management had considered imposing sanctions, but head coach Habib Bèye persuaded them to ease the punishment, arguing the players had shown greater dedication in daily training sessions. This time, however, Marseille have decided not to go easy on the squad. The closed-door lockdown remains in place with no confirmed end date, though it is expected to be lifted after Sunday evening’s match against Le Havre. Under the full lockdown arrangement, players are required to take part in two training sessions every day. The atmosphere has turned distinctly tense, with club management keeping constant oversight, while muted complaints have occasionally emerged from within the squad.
The editor believes that amid such a tense atmosphere, Marseille will spend the entire week in closed quarantine. They face a crucial match this weekend, which they must win to secure European qualification for next season. On May 17th, they will also host Rennes at home. The mood inside the stadium has become a hot topic among the players. Supporter groups are considering various forms of protest, with a full stadium boycott highly likely.