Marseille vs PSG - Thomas Meunier relishing first Classico experience at Marseille

Posted Saturday, February 25, 2017 by PA

Paris St Germain are bracing themselves for a crunch part of the season - starting with Sunday's clash against old foes Marseille.

PSG are three points off the top going in to the meeting at the Stade Velodrome, and full of confidence after their improbable Champions League mauling of Barcelona.

And, according to defender Thomas Meunier, the motivation used that night can power his side on in the domestic race.

"That game will always be a great memory. For the fans, that game is already in the annals of the club," he said.

"We were exemplary that evening and everyone was behind us. Now, we have to put that game to one side and go to the Camp Nou with the same motivation and the same desire.

"Having faced Barcelona before going to Marseille gives you more confidence. We are going to find ourselves in a red-hot atmosphere. It's the kind of match in which millions of people have their eyes on you.

"So there's just one thing to do: work well on the pitch. I'm really excited about experiencing my first Classico at the Velodrome. It's for the atmosphere at these games that you play football. It's true there will be quite a lot of pressure, but that's part of sport - you have to live with that. I'm really looking forward to Sunday."

PSG sit third, three points off leaders Monaco with Marseille further off the pace in sixth.

Their home form is fearsome, though - they have lost just once there in the league - and Meunier knows how much of a challenge faces his side.

"What I've noticed is that they're a team that often makes the difference at home," he added on his side's official website.

"I remember their Coupe de France game against Lyon. They have also won their last two Ligue 1 home games, so we have to be careful. They're a team that doesn't perhaps travel so well, but they have some quality players.

"We'll have to be very careful, because I think there's a certain excitement and motivation at the idea of playing Paris. I remember from the first game (0-0). It wasn't easy for us that day. It'll be a keenly fought game, but one thing is certain: we're going there to win."

Marseille coach Rudi Garcia has spelled out the job at hand for his players.

"Players do not need motivation for this kind of game," he told a press conference. "They have to want to die on the ground for each other. I came to OM to experience this."