OM: Himad Abdelli injured on Algeria duty, concern grows

Olympique Marseille have another fitness concern during the international break after Himad Abdelli was forced off while playing for Algeria. The midfielder suffered the problem shortly before half-time in the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier against Burundi, increasing the uncertainty around a player who has become important to Bruno Genesio’s team.

Abdelli was caught by a strong challenge and immediately grabbed his left ankle in pain. He needed support from two members of Algeria’s medical staff to leave the field, with Adem Zorgane taking his place. No diagnosis or timetable has been given, but the incident has raised concern in Marseille.

The 26-year-old arrived at OM last winter after his time with Angers and initially found it difficult to establish himself. His role has since grown significantly: he started all six of the club’s matches this season, including five in Ligue 1 and one in the Europa League.

His possible absence would come at a difficult point for Marseille. The club sit second from bottom of Ligue 1 after five rounds, while Abdelli’s injury follows problems suffered by Canada defender Derek Cornelius and Algeria forward Amine Gouiri. Cornelius has a serious hip injury, and Gouiri sustained a left quadriceps issue while with Algeria.