Ghana defender Marvin Senaya makes injury comeback in Auxerre’s heavy defeat to Strasbourg

Ghana international Marvin Senaya has made his long-awaited return to competitive football after spending four months on the sidelines with an injury as AJ Auxerre suffered a disappointing 5-1 defeat to Strasbourg in the French Ligue 1.

The 25-year-old right-back marked his return in Auxerre’s Week 9 encounter against Strasbourg at the Stade de la Meinau, coming off the bench in the second half.

Senaya was introduced in the 63rd minute, replacing Congolese international Christ Makosso, as Auxerre attempted to respond to their opponents’ dominance. However, his introduction could not change the outcome, with Strasbourg going on to secure a comfortable victory.

Gessime Yassine inspired the hosts with a brace, while Dário Essugo, Hugo Oliveira and Martial Godo also found the back of the net to complete the emphatic win.

The Ghanaian defender’s return represents an important milestone after an extended spell on the treatment table, having missed the opening stages of the 2026/27 campaign.

Senaya sustained a serious injury during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, ruling him out of action for approximately four months.

Before the setback, the defender had established himself as an important member of Ghana’s squad during the tournament, helping the Black Stars reach the knockout stage for the first time since the 2010 edition in South Africa.

His absence was a setback for both club and country, considering the defensive stability and attacking contributions he offers from the right flank.

However, his return to action provides a timely boost for Auxerre as they seek to improve their position in the French top flight.

It also offers encouragement to Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz ahead of the Black Stars’ upcoming international assignments.

Ghana are preparing for a double-header against Somalia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and Senaya’s return could strengthen the team’s defensive options should he regain full match fitness.

The defender will now be hoping to build on his first appearance since recovering from injury and gradually regain his rhythm as he targets a regular place in both the Auxerre and Ghana setups.