Matchday 22: Five things to watch this weekend in Ligue 1

Matchday 22 could prove pivotal in the title race, the fight for Europe and the battle to avoid the drop. Managerial upheaval has struck Rennes and Marseille, whilst PSG will be looking to impose themselves at the top of the Ligue 1 McDonald's table.

Rennes searching for stability amid PSG’s surge

Stade Rennais enter the weekend without a permanent manager after parting ways with Habib Beye. A five-match winless run has stalled their European charge, and defensive frailties have crept in at the worst possible time.

Friday’s visit of Paris Saint-Germain offers little margin for recovery. PSG have won seven straight league matches and dismantled Marseille 5–0 last time out. For Rennes, this is about pride and resilience. For PSG, it is about reimposing authority at the summit.

Lens ready to pounce in the title race

RC Lens remain firmly in the hunt, sitting just two points off top spot. Pierre Sage’s side have shown remarkable consistency, particularly when scoring first, and travel to the capital knowing any slip from PSG could reopen the door.

Facing a disciplined Paris FC side unbeaten in four league matches, Lens must balance patience with precision.

Marseille kick-off post-De Zerbi era at the Vélodrome

Last weekend’s 5–0 defeat in Le Classique signalled the end of Roberto De Zerbi’s tenure at Olympique de Marseille.

Now fourth, OM cannot afford emotional hangover. They have lost just once at home in Ligue 1 this season and welcome a confident RC Strasbourg Alsace side still within touching distance of the European places.

The Vélodrome demands reaction. Saturday will reveal whether Marseille can reset quickly or drift into uncertainty.

Monaco’s defensive momentum under scrutiny

AS Monaco are unbeaten in three league matches and have not conceded during that run. Defensive stability has replaced the volatility that defined their winter form.

However, inconsistency remains their biggest obstacle. A home clash with struggling FC Nantes represents an opportunity — and a test.

Another clean sheet would signal genuine progress. Dropped points would confirm Monaco’s season remains stuck between promise and frustration.

The European squeeze intensifies

The race for continental qualification is compressing rapidly. Rennes, Strasbourg, Lille and Monaco are separated by fine margins, while Marseille seek to cement their top-four position.

Every point now carries greater weight. A single result could shift the balance between Champions League dreams and Conference League uncertainty.