Olympiacos faces Marseille in Europa League amid fan travel controversy

Olympiacos prepares to face Marseille at the Vélodrome stadium for their second Europa League League Phase match. The Greek side enters the fixture following a winning streak, including a recent victory over Panathinaikos.

The match was preceded by significant controversy regarding the presence of Olympiacos supporters in Marseille. Initially, French authorities had imposed restrictions that led the club to advise fans against traveling, citing security concerns and potential financial losses. However, UEFA confirmed that local authorities subsequently revoked these restrictions, allowing fans to attend the match under heightened security measures. Marseille police clarified that the initial order concerned the display of club insignia in certain city areas rather than a total travel ban.

Olympiacos coach Imanol Alguacil emphasized the need for the team to remain faithful to its attacking identity while adapting to the tactical demands of playing at the Vélodrome. Player Cikiniou expressed the team's commitment to securing a victory despite the absence of their supporters in the stands. On the squad side, Olympiacos will be without striker Agiéb El Kaabi due to injury, while players like Ioannis Fetfatzidis are expected to be involved.