Rennes-OM: Jérémie Pignard officiates the opening match

We finally know the name of the conductor for the opening of Ligue 1: Jérémie Pignard will be the referee for this Rennes-OM match that already seems explosive. You surely remember, it's not the first time Pignard crosses paths with our OM, and his decisions have never left anyone indifferent. So, is it good or bad news for us? We weigh the pros and cons, like at the counter, and we're waiting for you in the comments!

An umpire who knows the Olympian house well

Jérémie Pignard is the referee who is rising at the national and European levels. Since his debut in Ligue 1 in 2019, he has grown in stature, earning the FIFA badge by 2021. For OM, he has already officiated 15 matches, and we can say the record isn’t that bad: only three defeats under his direction. Last season, he was already there for OM-Rennes (4-2) at the Vélodrome, a match we handled well. But beware, this same Pignard also officiated during our defeat in the Cup against Rennes this year...

On the Rennes side, their record with him is less flattering: three defeats in nine matches. Coincidence or Pignard syndrome? We’re curious to hear your opinions!

A European-style refereeing: advantage or risk?

What stands out the most about Pignard is his “European” side. He lets the game flow, likes engagement (as long as it's not dangerous), and communicates without overdoing it. Marseille supporters, as we know, are demanding with him. Some appreciate his seriousness and consistency, others are still marked by the famous Brest-OM controversy: remember, Balerdi’s red card eventually canceled by the VAR. Since then, he's carried this reputation of sometimes being a bit pedantic...

So, what's the real risk? Pignard doesn’t let anything go by on fouls and protests. He hands out cards without hesitation, especially when tensions rise. The advantage is that he applies the same rule for everyone. But if our players lose their temper, we could quickly find ourselves down to ten. Something to ponder… Do you think our guys can keep their cool?

The OM-Pignard history: between severity and pleasant surprises

To those who say Pignard is always against us, a little reminder: in his recent games with OM, he didn't hesitate to award us two penalties against Nantes, but he also sent Gigot off with two yellows. He’s not afraid to make important decisions, at the Vélodrome or elsewhere. Clearly, he’s a referee who enforces his authority, and we must know how to play with that. Moreover, in 15 matches, we only count three defeats, so there’s reason to put things in perspective!

But every match has its own story, and let's be honest, we're never safe from a crazy scenario with OM. That's also why we love this club, isn't it?

VAR and handling pressure: a real pro

Since he’s been accustomed to refereeing in Europe, Pignard handles VAR like few referees in Ligue 1. He knows how to take a step back, discuss with his assistants, and even change his mind as in the Brest episode. Some see this as a sign of humility and intelligence, others think he lacks firmness. But at least he doesn't get stuck on his first impressions. We can expect clear decisions, even if tensions rise.

What to expect on Saturday: discipline mandatory!

For this Rennes-OM, we’re going to have to show we can handle the pressure. Pignard won’t let anything go by, neither the simulations nor the shouts to win a free kick. That’s good; we need to prove we have character and can play like Europe's best without scattering.

What do you think, friends, will this referee choice tip the scales? Should we be wary, or is it an opportunity to show new collective solidity? Tell us everything in the comments: anecdotes about Pignard, expectations for the match, or even just a prediction, we read everything!