Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd and Ivorian midfielder Hamed Traoré Junior ruled out of Marseille’s Champions League opener against Real Madrid

Marseille will be without Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd and Ivorian midfielder Hamed Traoré Junior for Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League opener against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Aguerd, who featured in Marseille’s 4-0 Ligue 1 victory over Lorient on Friday, sustained a head injury during the encounter. Despite finding the net in that match with the fourth and final goal, the defender was forced to begin concussion protocols shortly afterwards and has since been withdrawn from training.

Medical staff have confirmed that he will not be fit to travel with the squad to Spain, and the length of his recovery period is expected to become clearer in the coming days.

The Moroccan international had been expected to play a pivotal role in Marseille’s defensive set-up against Real Madrid, particularly with the Bernabéu clash marking one of the most daunting fixtures of the group stage.

His absence represents a significant setback for Roberto De Zerbi’s side as they look to begin their European campaign on solid footing.

Traoré Junior, meanwhile, has also been ruled out after suffering a thigh injury. The Ivorian midfielder, who did not feature against Lorient and remained on the bench, has been sidelined while he undergoes treatment.

Club officials have yet to provide a definitive timeline for his return, leaving uncertainty over how long Marseille will be deprived of his services.

The timing of both setbacks could hardly be more frustrating for Marseille, with the Champions League group stage resuming after months of anticipation.

Their opening fixture places them against the record 14-time winners Real Madrid, who will present a formidable challenge in front of their home supporters.

Aguerd’s absence in particular alters the balance of the defensive line. Signed to provide leadership and stability at the back, he has been a consistent presence in Ligue 1 and brings valuable international experience.

Losing him on the eve of such a crucial fixture leaves Marseille with a major void to fill at the heart of their backline.

For Traoré Junior, his injury halts the momentum he was beginning to build after joining the squad. The midfielder’s versatility and energy were seen as important assets for De Zerbi as he looked to rotate his options across both domestic and European fronts. His unavailability limits the Italian coach’s tactical flexibility as Marseille enter a demanding schedule of matches.

Despite the double blow, Marseille will need to regroup quickly and adjust their plans accordingly. The clash at the Bernabéu is not only a stern test of their credentials but also a chance to measure themselves against Europe’s elite.

With the French side having started the new Ligue 1 season in strong form, the absence of two key players will challenge the squad’s depth and resilience.

As supporters await further updates on both players, the club remains hopeful that neither absence will stretch too long into the campaign.

For now, however, Marseille must confront Real Madrid without two important figures, knowing that every point in the group stage will be vital in their quest to advance to the knockout rounds.