Hojbjerg injured, Cornelius out until 2027: OM arrives at Troyes decimated

Olympique de Marseille face their trip to Troyes on Saturday in an alarming health situation after an international break that turned the pause into a nightmare for Bruno Genesio’s staff. The club already occupies 17th place in Ligue 1 following a run of five consecutive defeats.

The heaviest loss concerns Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who suffered a muscle injury during his fourth consecutive start for Denmark. Tests conducted early in the week partially reassured the staff, but the former Tottenham midfielder will be absent on Saturday and is expected to miss several matches. His absence forces Genesio to completely rethink his double pivot.

Himad Abdelli, who suffered an ankle injury with Algeria, should nevertheless hold his place in midfield. His partner remains uncertain: Geoffrey Kondogbia and Hamine Arit are both considered physically unfit. Tochukwu Nnadi, recovered from a meniscus issue and having played thirty minutes in a friendly against Montpellier, appears as the most likely solution, even if his lack of match fitness raises questions. A repositioning of Angel Gomes or the debut of young Nouhoum Kamissoko are also being considered.

The defence is not spared. Derek Cornelius, seriously injured to the hip during the Canadian gathering, is out until 2027. CJ Egan-Riley is suffering from an ankle problem and Nayef Aguerd remains diminished. On the right flank, Timothy Weah’s suspension opens a battle between Ulisses Garcia and specialist Kelyann Bezahaf.

Up front, Amine Gouiri is uncertain due to a thigh problem, although he is expected to return to group training on Thursday. Marseille therefore arrive at Troyes with a full infirmary and virtually no margin for error in a battle for survival that is already shaping up to be tight.