Floyd Ayité Set for Ligue 1 Debut with Bastia Against Marseille
New signing Floyd Ayité is set to feature for SC Bastia as they prepare to host Marseille on Saturday at 6 p.m. UTC, marking the opening day of the Ligue 1 season.
The Togolese international, who joined Bastia from Reims during the summer transfer window, has quickly earned the trust of coach Claude Makélélé and is included in the squad for this important fixture. However, Ayité will not face his compatriot Jacques Alaixys Romao, who plays for Marseille but is sidelined due to suspension. Romao received three yellow cards in the last ten matches of the previous season, resulting in a ban for the opening game under league regulations.
Meanwhile, Bastia’s three newest signings—Pino, Ba, and Rodriguez—are still undergoing recovery from injuries and are not yet ready to take part in competitive action. Veteran striker Djibril Cissé is reportedly seeking a transfer away from the club. Additionally, defender Gilles Cioni has been assigned to the reserve team and will not feature in the matchday squad.
The full Bastia squad named for the Marseille clash includes goalkeepers Areola and Leca; defenders Diakité, Modesto, Squillaci, Palmieri, and Peybernes; midfielders Romaric, Achilli, Gillet, Cahuzac, Boudebouz, Ayité, Maboulou, and Kamano; as well as forwards Tallo, Koné, and Brandao.
This opening match presents a challenging start for Bastia, as they face one of France’s traditional giants in Marseille. The inclusion of Ayité is expected to add attacking options and creativity to the Corsican side, as they look to make a strong impression in Ligue 1 this season.
Bastia will be keen to capitalize on home advantage and the absence of Romao in Marseille’s ranks. The suspension of the experienced midfielder could weaken Marseille’s defensive midfield stability, providing Bastia with opportunities to press forward.
Fans will be watching closely to see how Ayité adapts to his new surroundings and contributes to Bastia’s ambitions. The club and supporters hope his arrival will help boost their offensive threat and secure vital points as they aim to establish themselves in France’s top flight.
As the season gets underway, Bastia face an early test of their credentials, and the performance of new signings like Ayité will be crucial in determining how competitive the team can be this year.
