Marseille vs Angers: Hamed Traore Starts, Igor Paixão Benched in Predicted XI
Olympique de Marseille is gearing up to face Angers SCO at the Stade Raymond Kopa. Riding high on a recent 9-0 victory over FC Bayeux in the Coupe de France, Marseille hopes to capitalize on this momentum. The match marks a return to league action for the team, aiming to improve their performance in the new year.
Team Challenges Ahead of the Match
Head coach Roberto De Zerbi faces some challenges with his lineup. Key defenders Benjamin Pavard and Nayef Aguerd will miss the match due to injury and international commitments, respectively. Aguerd is currently participating in the Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, which will compete in the final against Senegal.
Expected Defensive Lineup
With Pavard and Aguerd absent, Facundo Medina is expected to join Leonardo Balerdi in central defense. This adjustment is crucial for maintaining the team’s defensive solidity against Angers.
Offensive Strategy
Offensively, Amine Gouiri is likely to take the starting position over Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Additionally, Hamed Traorè’s presence on the left wing could provide a fresh approach. Traorè’s inclusion comes after Igor Paixão faced scrutiny for recent mistakes in games, raising questions about his spot in the lineup.
Predicted Starting XI for Marseille
The anticipated starting eleven for this match includes:
- Gerónimo Rulli
- Emerson Palmieri
- Facundo Medina
- Leonardo Balerdi
- Amir Murillo
- Arthur Vermeeren
- Pierre-Emile Højbjerg
- Hamed Traorè
- Mason Greenwood
- Timothy Weah
- Amine Gouiri
As Marseille looks to build on their previous success, this match against Angers will be crucial for their league standing.
