AS Saint-Étienne is facing major challenges due to an accumulation of injuries and suspensions among its key players. Eirik Horneland, the new coach, must manage the absence of Ibrahim Sissoko and Yunis Abdelhamid, both suspended for the crucial match against Reims on January 4.
Ibrahim Sissoko was sent off during the crushing defeat against Marseille, which automatically results in his suspension for the next match. The Disciplinary Commission could even decide to increase this sanction after its action towards Balerdi. This absence is a big blow for the team.
As for Younis Abdelhamidhe received a third yellow card in less than ten matches, which also deprived him of the match against Reims. His absence is particularly problematic for the ASSE defense, because he is the captain and one of the pillars of the team.
In addition, two other players, Lucas Stassin and Bouchouari are under threat of suspension. Stassin must avoid any yellow cards in the next four matches, while Bouchouari has a five-game reprieve before risking exclusion.
The current situation at AS Saint-Étienne is worrying, as these suspensions add to an already long list of injuries. The team will need to show resilience to overcome these challenges and continue to fight in the competition.
With so many absences, coach Horneland must rethink his strategy and find solutions to maintain the competitiveness of his team. The next matches promise to be difficult for the Greens, who will have to draw on their resources to stay in the race.
