Lille OSC faces a challenging match against Celta Vigo in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night, as they will be without midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who is suspended. Bouaddi’s absence is compounded by the long-term injury of centre-forward Hamza Igamane, who suffered a serious ACL injury during Morocco’s defeat in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
Olivier Giroud has been entrusted with leading the attack for LOSC and will also captain the team in this crucial fixture. Additionally, Benjamin André will not be participating due to a shoulder injury, further straining Lille’s squad depth. André Gomes and Osame Sahraoui are also unavailable due to injuries, while Ethan Mbappé has not been included in the UEFA Europa League squad and is therefore ineligible to play.
Despite these setbacks, Lille has assembled a lineup that shows promise and determination. The starting formation is expected to include Berke Ozer in goal, supported by a defensive line of Romain Perraud, Alexsandro, Aissa Mandi, and Thomas Meunier. The midfield will feature Ngal’ayel Mukau and Nabil Bentaleb, while Matias Fernandez-Pardo, Hakon Arnar Haraldsson, and Félix Correia will support Giroud up front.
Lille OSC aims to rise above the challenges posed by their absences and secure a vital result in their European campaign. Fans will be hoping that the team can demonstrate resilience and unity as they take on Celta Vigo, reveling in the opportunity to shine on the European stage.