Sunday evening, Marseille faced Paris Saint-Germain in a high tension classic. But to everyone's surprise, Ismaël Bennacer, yet in great shape in recent weeks, did not appear on the match sheet. A sudden absence which has fueled many speculations. Why is Bennacer, supposed to be a key element of the Zerbi Roberto device, said forfeit at the last minute?
Petkovic breaks the silence on Bennacer
It was finally Vladimir Petkovic, coach of Algeria, who lifted the veil on the situation of the Marseille environment. Present at a press conference, he wanted to clarify the reasons for this absence. “Bennacer is a shame. He really wanted to come. He had a very good start to the adventure in Marseille and I wanted to tenure him for the two matches to come ”,
he said.
The Fennecs coach then revealed a surprising detail:
“On the eve of the match against PSG, at 4 am, he transmitted to the coach a new one that he suffered from a muscle problem. The exams confirmed the injury. We think it's nothing serious. He also traveled to Paris with OM, but he couldn't play. »»
A serious injury, but a cautious management
Before the meeting against PSG, Roberto de Zerbi also mentioned this sudden package. “” Yesterday (Saturday), he felt muscle pressure. He can't play. The medical staff told me that he couldn't play. It was a great risk. »»
If the Marseille club wants to be reassuring, this injury however raises questions about Bennacer's physical state. Arrived on loan in January, the Algerian international continues the good performances in the Marseille jersey. His absence against PSG certainly weighed on the balance of the midfielder, already weakened by the injury of Højbjerg.
What follow -up for Bennacer?
For the time being, the duration of its unavailability remains unclear. The first diagnoses indicate that it is only a minor muscular problem, but caution will be in order. Bennacer could miss the next games with OM, but his condition will be reassessed in the coming days. A situation to closely monitor, as its role is crucial for the end of the Marseille season.
