Olympique de Marseille, under the guidance of coach Gennaro Gattuso, is set to face Shaktar Donetsk in the playoff’s first leg. However, a notable absence from the Marseille lineup is Senegalese international Ismaïla Sarr, who has been omitted by Gattuso due to the accumulation of three yellow cards.
The 25-year-old right winger’s absence is a result of disciplinary sanctions, with league regulations stipulating that a player who accumulates three yellow cards will be automatically suspended for the subsequent Champions League or Europa League match.
This suspension will continue to apply at intervals of every two additional yellow cards, such as the fifth, seventh, and ninth offenses.
Despite this setback, Sarr has showcased commendable performances throughout the season, contributing four goals and two assists in 22 appearances across various competitions for Marseille.
His statistics reflect a player capable of making a significant impact in the offensive aspect of the game.
As Marseille faces a challenging period domestically, currently sitting in 8th place with 30 points after 21 matches, Gattuso’s tactical decisions become crucial.
The absence of Sarr provides an opportunity for other attacking players, including Aubameyang, Iliman N’Diaye, and Correa, to step up and contribute to the team’s success.
Marseille, eager for a resurgence in 2024, aims to secure their first victory of the year.
In the European arena, the match against Shaktar Donetsk, held in Hamburg, Germany, due to the ongoing Ukrainian-Russian conflict, serves as a pivotal moment for Marseille to make a statement and progress in the Europa League.
