Having mathematically secured European football for next season with last weekend’s victory over Paris FC, Stade Rennais now has their sights set on an even loftier prize: the Champions League. A win against Marseille in the final matchday of Ligue 1 could see them leapfrog Lille, provided Auxerre stun the northerners or Lyon fail to overcome Lens. The third-place finish would earn direct qualification to Europe’s premier club competition.

But even if the stars don’t align for that scenario, Rennes’ destiny remains firmly in their own hands. A draw or victory against a struggling Marseille side would guarantee Europa League football, while only defeat would relegate them to the Europa Conference League. Live coverage begins at 8:30pm on ICI Armorique, with commentary from François Rauzy and Flavien Tait, the former Rennes player who experienced Champions League football with the club in 2020.

Revisiting old ties with Habib Beye

This fixture carries added significance as it marks a reunion with Habib Beye, who took charge of Rennes earlier this season before departing under controversial circumstances. His tenure at Marseille has been far from smooth, with just 16 points picked up in 11 matches, leaving the club far from the Champions League hunt. His return to the Stade Rennais bench will be watched closely by Breton faithful, especially given the emotional backdrop of this crucial encounter.