Aston Villa continue their preparations for the 2025/26 campaign on Saturday, travelling to the south of France to contest their penultimate pre-season friendly against Olympique de Marseille (ko 7pm CET)

The game forms a part of a double header of fixtures for the Villans over their final weekend before the start of the season, as they fly straight to Spain from France to take on Villarreal on Sunday (ko 9pm CET).

A host of Villans are again set to travel across the channel to get behind Unai Emery’s men, and below you can find key details and useful information ahead of your trip.

Note: Supporters are strongly advised to avoid wearing Aston Villa colours at the stadium and around Marseille.

Orange Vélodrome

Address: Orange Vélodrome – 20 Rue du Vélodrome, 17100 Saintes, Marseille

Aston Villa supporters will be located in the Jean Bouin Stand – Block L, in the North East corner of the ground. Entrance is via the Jean Bouin forecourt.

Villa’s allocation of 500 tickets for the clash is sold out, meaning the only way to catch the action is by watching live on VillaTV – via a Membership or Match Pass.

Getting There

Orange Vélodrome is located in the south of Marseille, about two miles from Marseille’s city centre and 2.5 miles from central railway station Saint-Charles.

Prohibited items

The following items are not permitted at the Orange Vélodrome…

• Portable batteries
• Non-collapsible umbrellas
• Helmets
• Flammable spray or gases
• Bulky bags and suitcases
• Tools
• Weapons, explosives, edged weapons or any object that can be used as a weapon
• Laser pointers
• Animals (except service dogs)
• Food and drink purchased elsewhere
• Alcoholic beverages and drugs
• Selfie sticks, tripods or professional cameras
• Pushchairs

Secure storage lockers

On matchdays, lockers are available on the Ganay and Jean Bouin squares.

These cost €2, with only cash payment accepted.

Pubs for visiting fans

O’Brady’s Irish Pub

This is an Irish bar that has been set up in Marseille by Jean-Luc Bardy, whose father was responsible for coaching the French athletics team. This pub is a specialist when it comes to serving Guinness. It is also a great venue for sport and enjoying some delicious food.

Brasserie du Stade

Brasserie du Stade is a visiting fan friendly restaurant, and it has some excellent food on offer. There are also top-class drinks for fans before the match. The Brasserie du Stade is located just outside the Orange Vélodrome.

The Black Unicorn

This is a British-style pub in the city. They are a specialist when it comes to showing the games on big screens while still providing options for enjoying Guinness, lagers, and ales. This can be a great choice for a pre-match pint of beer.