FC Lorient will be without forward Tosin Aiyegun for an estimated three to four weeks after the striker suffered a hamstring injury while on international duty with Benin at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The setback was confirmed on Thursday by Lorient head coach Olivier Pantaloni during a pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s Ligue 1 fixture against AS Monaco in the 18th round of the season.
The injury rules Aiyegun out of several key domestic matches as Lorient navigate a demanding phase of their campaign.
Aiyegun sustained the injury on Monday, January 5, during Benin’s round-of-16 encounter against Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The forward was forced to leave the pitch during the match and was replaced by fellow Beninese international Jodel Dossou.
Benin’s elimination from the tournament shortly afterwards allowed Aiyegun to return to France earlier than expected for further assessment.
Upon his return to Brittany, the 26-year-old underwent medical examinations conducted by FC Lorient’s medical staff.
The results confirmed a hamstring injury that will keep him sidelined for approximately three to four weeks.
As a result, the striker is set to miss a number of upcoming Ligue 1 fixtures as well as potential cup commitments during his recovery period.
The absence represents a notable blow for Lorient, with Aiyegun having played a consistent role in the squad this season.
He has made 14 appearances in Ligue 1, scoring three goals, and has been a regular option in the attacking rotation under Pantaloni.
His pace and direct style have provided Lorient with an important outlet in transition, particularly against teams that defend deep.
While Lorient now focus on managing without the Benin international, the coaching staff are expected to rely on alternative attacking options as they seek to maintain momentum in the league.
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate, arriving just as the club enters a crucial stretch of fixtures that could shape their objectives for the remainder of the season.
For Aiyegun, the priority will be a careful recovery to avoid any complications.
Hamstring injuries often require close monitoring, and Lorient’s medical team will aim to ensure that the forward returns only when fully fit, rather than risking a premature comeback.
The player’s situation also underlines the physical demands placed on footballers competing across domestic and international competitions, particularly during congested periods that include major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations.
Lorient have not set a precise return date for Aiyegun, but the projected timeframe suggests he could be available again toward the end of the month, depending on his response to treatment and rehabilitation.
Until then, the club will be hoping to navigate his absence successfully while keeping one of their key attacking players on track for a full recovery.
