Surprising Referee for PSG vs. OM: Thomas Léonard’s First Classique Encounter

Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille will see a surprising referee officiate the Trophée des Champions match, as he has never handled a game of this caliber before.

A baptism of fire for Thomas Léonard. The French referee, with 146 Ligue 1 matches under his belt, has been appointed to officiate the Trophée des Champions clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille. The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has chosen a referee who has never experienced a match of this intensity before. He will feel the pressure of such a high-stakes encounter in Kuwait, with a trophy on the line.

Léonard will be assisted by linesmen Huseyin Ocak and Ludovic Reyes. Guillaume Paradis will take on the role of fourth official, while Bastien Dechepy and Julien Schmitt will oversee the video assistance.

PSG is the clear favorite against OM

As seen earlier this season at the Vélodrome, a Classic match is never a foregone conclusion. Marseille managed to defeat a depleted PSG side (1-0) back then. However, this Thursday, a revitalized PSG will take the field. Under Luis Enrique, the team has regained depth, confidence, and composure.

In contrast, Marseille comes off a troubling defeat against FC Nantes (0-2). Discontent is brewing among the Marseille supporters, with some blaming Roberto De Zerbi for poor management.