Olympique de Marseille will head into their French Cup quarter-final clash against lower-league side Granville (CFA 2) on Thursday with several key absentees in their squad. The match, on paper, looks like a mismatch between one of France’s biggest clubs and an amateur team from the fifth division, but OM coach Michel González will need to carefully manage his resources as injuries, suspensions, and tactical choices limit his options.
One of the most notable absentees is Nicolas Nkoulou. The Cameroonian central defender, a mainstay in Marseille’s backline, is suspended for two matches. His absence not only deprives OM of experience and stability in defence but also forces the manager to reshuffle his options at the back. Alongside Nkoulou, the club must also do without right-back Brice Dja Djédjé. The Ivorian international, who has often provided dynamism and energy on the flanks, is sidelined with a thigh injury. His absence further reduces the available choices in defence, which may push Michel into deploying younger or less experienced players.
Abou Diaby, whose career at Arsenal was plagued by recurring injuries, continues to face fitness struggles at Marseille. The French midfielder is again unavailable due to a calf problem. His inability to string together consistent appearances has been a source of frustration both for the player and the club, as OM had hoped to rejuvenate his career when they brought him in. Unfortunately, this latest setback means he will not be part of the squad travelling to Normandy.
Adding to the list of absentees, Lassana Diarra, one of Marseille’s most consistent performers this season, will also miss the game. The French international, who has been instrumental in controlling the midfield with his composure and vision, has been given a rest. With Diarra sidelined, Marseille will rely more heavily on their other midfielders to dictate play and provide balance in both attack and defence.
Despite these setbacks, Marseille still possesses enough quality to approach the game with confidence. Captain and goalkeeper Steve Mandanda is part of the squad and will likely provide leadership from the back. The defensive group includes players such as De Ceglie, Manquillo, Mendy, Rekik, Rolando, and Sparagna, all of whom will be competing for starting roles in the absence of Nkoulou and Dja Djédjé.
In midfield, the available players include Alessandrini, Barrada, Cabella, Isla, Romao, Sarr, and Lucas Silva. This group provides a mix of creativity, energy, and defensive solidity. Offensively, OM can still count on their main striker Michy Batshuayi, who has been in fine form, as well as recent signing Steven Fletcher. Youngster Georges-Kévin Nkoudou and the returning Florian Thauvin also add width and attacking options.
Although Marseille are favourites against Granville, cup competitions in France are known for producing shocks. With several stars missing, the pressure will be on the rest of the squad to avoid complacency and ensure safe passage to the semi-finals. For Michel’s men, it is not just about advancing in the tournament but also about restoring confidence in a season that has been inconsistent.
