Lille: Hamza Igamane will miss the regular phase of the Champions League

15:52

LOSC will have to start its European campaign without Hamza Igamane. Still recovering from a serious knee injury, the Moroccan forward will not be able to participate in the regular phase of the Champions League with the northern club.

The information was confirmed by Lille's coach, Davide Ancelotti, on the eve of the Dogues' opening match against Real Betis. At 23 years old, the Moroccan international is continuing his recovery and will have to wait before returning to the European stage.

A return depending on Lille's progress

While Hamza Igamane will not be available during the regular phase, his Champions League adventure could still see another scenario depending on Lille's results.

If the club qualifies for the knockout stages, it could make him eligible to participate in the competition again. The Dogues' European journey will therefore be a determining factor in hoping to see the Moroccan forward back on the Champions League pitches this season.

Olivier Giroud called to step up

In the meantime, Lille has an experienced solution in the attacking sector with Olivier Giroud. The French striker is having a promising start to the season and appears to be one of the club's main options to lead the attack.

Moreover, LOSC has made a strong start to its league season. After three matchdays, the Lillois have seven points out of nine possible, thanks in particular to their victories against Toulouse and Angers.

Ancelotti wary of Real Betis

For his first European encounter, Davide Ancelotti has urged his players to be cautious against Real Betis. The Italian coach believes that the Spanish team has a squad accustomed to major continental challenges.

The Lille coach highlights the European experience of several Betis players, some of whom have already won the Champions League. He also expects to face a disciplined team that is difficult to destabilize, particularly due to its defensive qualities.

Injury occurred in AFCON final

Hamza Igamane's long absence dates back to the Africa Cup of Nations final held on January 18 in Morocco. Coming on during the match, the player later injured his right knee and had to leave the pitch during extra time.

Examinations revealed a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. This injury extended an already challenging physical period for the forward, who had been dealing with adductor issues a few weeks prior with Lille during the 15th matchday of Ligue 1 in December 2025.

Therefore, LOSC will have to cope with this absence as they enter the Champions League, while Hamza Igamane continues his work to gradually return to the fields.