Marcelo Bielsa has given a first league start to new signing Karim Rekik as Marseille begin their campaign at home to Caen.
Florian Thauvin, who had been linked with a move away from the Stade Velodrome this summer, also starts for OM.
However, there is no place for new signings Abou Diaby, Lassana Diarra or Bouna Sarr.
Caen have opted for Lenny Nangis over Herve Bazile in what should be a five-man midfield for the visitors.
Marseille: Mandanda; Djadjedje, Sparagna, Rekik, Mendy; Romao, Lemina; Alessandrini, Barrada, Thauvin; Batshuayi
Caen: Vercoutre; Appiah, Yahia, Da Silva, Imorou; Adeoti; Nangis, Delaplace, Feret, Bessat; Delort