Le Mans FC will face FC Lorient this Saturday (20:45) in Ligue 1's fifth matchday without right-back Lucas Buades. First-choice goalkeeper Nicolas Kocik returns after missing the last two fixtures.
Manager Patrick Videira must reorganise his defence in Buades's absence. Winger Erwann Colas, who only made a substitute appearance on the opening day, is also unavailable. For the visitors, Lorient coach Alexandre Dujeux confirmed the absence of midfielder Noah Mbamba. "He injured his hamstring yesterday (Wednesday) in a committed duel," Dujeux said. Mbamba, who scored against Toulouse and played well at Lens, is expected to be replaced by Arthur Avom Ebong alongside Noah Cadiou in midfield.
Lorient forward Aiyegun Tosin, who was ill for several days this week, was due a final assessment on Friday to determine his availability. Les Merlus travel to the Stade Marie-Marvingt just three days after a 2-1 defeat to this same Le Mans side on 19 September. Sitting ninth with six points, Le Mans aims to build on that victory ahead of a challenging fixtures list.
The return of Nicolas Kocik in goal is a boost for the home side. His presence should solidify a defence that has conceded nine goals in five matches. In attack, Adil Bourabaa, the team's top scorer with three goals this season, will be a key threat after netting in the last meeting. Le Mans's probable lineup is Kocik; D. Sidibé, Yohou (captain), Voyer; R. Bamba, Bourabaa, Bretelle, Vercruysse, Calodat; Mafouta, D. Gueye. The referee for the match is G. Kubler. Le Mans's next fixture is an away trip to Paris Saint Germain on 10 October. The full squad details are available online.
Read the full report at Le Télégramme
