Juba Touabi, Media365, published on Sunday January 26, 2025 at 9:45 p.m.
LOSC must deal with a new major difficulty: its Kosovar winger Edon Zhegrova will be unavailable for the next six weeks due to a pubic injury.
This hard blow comes at a crucial time of the season for the northern club. Edon Zhegrova, who has not played again since December 14, remains one of the pillars of the Lille team despite a prolonged absence over the last seven matches. With 1,591 minutes played this season, the Lille winger was among the key elements of the system. This unavailability further complicates LOSC's plans as it adds to that of Matias Fernandez-Pardo, another offensive player, also absent for three weeks. These injuries come at a time when the Mastiffs must juggle a busy schedule. Engaged on several fronts, including a decisive Champions League match against Feyenoord, LOSC could be forced to quickly strengthen on the transfer market. A possible qualification for the round of 16 would further add to the complexity of squad management.
-Reinforcements expected this winter
Behind the scenes, the absence also weighs on the player's morale. According to sources close to the club, Edon Zhegrova was deeply affected by the situation, going so far as to cry at LOSC's defeat against Liverpool, which he followed from home. These emotions reflect his attachment to the club and his desire to return to the field to help his teammates. Faced with rumors announcing a possible departure of the winger to Naples, LOSC president Olivier Létang wanted to reassure supporters: Zhegrova is fully committed to Lille and is not considering a departure, despite speculation. A welcome statement in a context where the stability of the team is essential.
The only bright spot in this gloomy picture lies in the medical diagnosis: no operation will be necessary to treat Zhegrova's injury. However, his recovery will need to be managed with caution to avoid any relapse. During this time, coach Bruno Genesio will have to make multiple adjustments to compensate for these absences, in a period where each match can change the season. The next few weeks promise to be decisive for LOSC. Between the demands of different competitions and injury management, the club will have to find solutions to maintain its ambitions. For Edon Zhegrova, this event is a difficult stage, but his expected return could give new impetus to a team which must now navigate through troubled waters.
