The international break has left Lille with one key midfielder back in the light and another young talent still waiting in the shadows. Nabil Bentaleb is available again for Saturday’s home Ligue 1 meeting with Le Havre, while Ethan Mbappé will miss out after returning from France Under-21 duty injured.
Bentaleb ready for Le Havre
Bentaleb did not join Algeria during the recent international window because of a healing issue, but he has trained with the Lille squad this week.
Davide Ancelotti confirmed on Friday that the midfielder can return for the match at Stade Pierre-Mauroy, scheduled for 17:15 on Saturday.
“He is ready to play,” the Lille coach said.
Mbappé and Igamane remain unavailable
- Hamza Igamane is still building his fitness after a serious knee injury and will not be involved against Le Havre.
- Ethan Mbappé also remains out after suffering an injury during his first start for France Under-21s.
- The Lille youngster was hurt in Estonia during the 2-0 win on September 29, with the problem affecting his forefoot as well as his ankle.
Ancelotti explained that Mbappé’s issue is not limited to the ankle.
“It is more of a forefoot problem, even though the ankle has also been affected,” he said. “We will see whether he can be back for Brest on October 17. Otherwise, it will be Monaco on the 25th.”
Lille will therefore welcome Le Havre with Bentaleb restored to the group, but without Igamane and Mbappé as the squad returns to domestic action.
