FC Metz will begin their Ligue 1 campaign without promising Senegalese winger Malick Mbaye, who has been ruled out for several weeks following an ankle injury sustained in training.
The 20-year-old picked up the setback during the club’s final training session before their pre-season friendly against Hoffenheim, a match he subsequently missed.
According to Socios FC Metz, initial medical assessments indicate the winger will be sidelined for a minimum of three weeks.
Mbaye is set to meet a specialist in the coming days to determine the full extent of the damage and receive confirmation of his recovery timeline.
While early indications are cautiously optimistic, the absence of one of Metz’s brightest young attacking talents comes as a significant setback for the Grenats as they prepare for the opening fixtures of the season.
Signed for his pace, directness, and creativity on the flanks, Mbaye had been earmarked for a prominent role in the early part of the campaign.
His energy and ability to stretch defences were expected to be key assets as Metz sought a strong start in their bid to establish themselves in France’s top tier.
The injury leaves manager Laszlo Bölöni with fewer options in wide positions, forcing a potential reshuffle in attack.
Metz may have to rely on more experienced squad members or accelerate the integration of other young players to fill the gap.
The news will also be a personal disappointment for Mbaye, who had enjoyed a positive pre-season before the setback.
The winger had been hoping to build on his momentum and secure a regular place in the starting line-up.
With the Ligue 1 calendar offering little room for extended recovery, Metz will be eager to avoid rushing his return.
The club’s medical staff are expected to prioritise a full recovery to prevent the injury from becoming a recurring issue later in the season.
For now, Metz’s supporters will have to wait to see the young Senegalese talent back in action.
While the club has not yet confirmed a precise return date, the initial prognosis suggests Mbaye could be available again before the end of the opening month of the campaign — provided his recovery progresses without complications.
The Grenats open their Ligue 1 season hoping that, despite Mbaye’s absence, they can find the attacking spark needed to navigate the early weeks without one of their most exciting young players.
