AS Saint-Étienne will be without Senegalese forward Ibrahima Wadji and striker Ibrahim Sissoko for their crucial Ligue 1 clash against Angers this Saturday, but the return of Moroccan midfielder Aïmen Mouffek provides a timely boost for head coach Eirik Horneland.
Wadji, who has been out of action for several weeks due to injury, remains sidelined and will not feature in the upcoming fixture.
Speaking during a press conference, Horneland confirmed that the 29-year-old forward is still undergoing recovery and will require more time before making his return.
“Ibrahima is progressing, but he’s not ready to rejoin the squad yet,” the Norwegian coach stated.
Adding to the club’s selection concerns, Ibrahim Sissoko is also unavailable after falling ill earlier this week.
While initially considered a doubt, the coaching staff has now ruled out his participation against Angers, leaving ASSE’s attacking options significantly reduced.
However, there is a silver lining for the Greens as Aïmen Mouffek makes his long-awaited return to the squad.
The 23-year-old Moroccan midfielder, who has been sidelined for several weeks, has fully recovered and is expected to play a role in Saturday’s match.
“Aïmen’s return is a big positive for us. His energy and technical skills in midfield will be crucial,” Horneland highlighted.
ASSE’s injury woes extend beyond Wadji and Sissoko, with several other players also facing uncertainties ahead of the Angers encounter.
Defenders Anthony Briançon and Pierre Cornus remain doubtful, with both players nursing minor injuries. Their availability will be determined closer to matchday.
Meanwhile, Dennis Appiah continues his rehabilitation and is expected to return next week, while Igor Miladinovic remains questionable after missing training due to illness.
This string of absences has forced Horneland to consider tactical adjustments, as Saint-Étienne aims to secure vital points in their Ligue 1 campaign.
Despite the setbacks, the return of Mouffek offers a much-needed boost to ASSE’s midfield, providing creativity and stability in the center of the pitch.
Known for his vision and work rate, Mouffek’s presence could prove pivotal as Saint-Étienne looks to counter Angers’ attacking threats.
“We’re facing challenges with injuries and illnesses, but this is where the depth of the squad matters,” Horneland explained. “It’s an opportunity for other players to step up and show what they can do.”
Currently battling to climb the Ligue 1 standings, Saint-Étienne understands the importance of securing points, especially in home fixtures.
Angers, known for their disciplined style of play, will pose a tough test, but Horneland remains confident in his team’s resilience.
“This is a crucial period for us,” the coach emphasized. “We need to approach every match with determination and adapt to the circumstances.”
With key players sidelined and others returning, Saint-Étienne will need to strike the right balance as they prepare for a decisive encounter against Angers.
All eyes will be on Mouffek’s return, as the Moroccan midfielder aims to make an immediate impact and help guide ASSE through a critical phase of their season.
