Paris FC's English head coach Liam Rosenior is considering a bold tactical switch to cover for Otávio's absence in defence ahead of the match against OM. The Brazilian full-back is sidelined for two to three weeks, prompting the staff to test Hamari Traoré on the left flank.

This information was reported this Sunday by L'Équipe. Paris FC approaches this period with a solid league record, sitting fourth in the Ligue 1 standings with four points from one win and one draw. The team also boasts the league's best defence with three goals scored and none conceded, giving them a +3 goal difference.

Who can replace Otávio in defence?

Otávio's injury, added to the absences of Emmanuel Mbemba, Jonathan Ikoné, Luca Koleosho and Nhoa Sangui, forces Rosenior to rethink his defensive setup. In the last match, a 3-0 win against Nice, the central defence consisted of Adama Camara, Diego Coppola and Samir Chergui. The latter is currently preferred to Moustapha Mbow.

The most discussed option is repositioning Hamari Traoré, usually a right-sided player, on the left flank. This would maintain defensive stability while utilising the player's experience. The final choice depends on several criteria, as Rosenior himself highlighted. You can check the full list of available players on our squad page.

What is Rosenior's likely starting lineup?

In midfield, Pierre Lees-Melou and Maxime Lopez are in contention to retain their starting spots. The attack could feature Lassine Sinayoko supported by Pablo Pagis and Ilan Kebbal. The return of Lucas Koleosho, once fit, could in turn push Moses Simon to the bench.

Rudy Matondo and Patrick Zabi are also competing for starting roles, but they are more likely destined for impactful substitute duties. The manager stressed the importance of the whole squad. "Le choix de l'équipe dépend de plusieurs critères, ce n'est pas seulement l'équipe qui débute mais aussi les joueurs qui sortent du banc," said Liam Rosenior.

What is Paris FC's current context?

Paris FC enters this match in positive form. The team is unbeaten after two matchdays and sits just five points behind leaders AS Monaco. This strong start provides a solid foundation for the upcoming challenges.

The objective will be to maintain this defensive solidity while finding creative solutions in attack. The collective performance against OM will be a good indicator of the club's real ambitions this season. To follow the league table evolution, visit our standings page.

What is the next challenge after OM?

Immediately after the clash against OM, Paris FC will face another important fixture. The club will host Olympique Lyonnais, currently second in the table, on Saturday, 12 September 2026 at the Stade Charléty.

This double-header against league heavyweights will be decisive for morale and league position. The fitness of returning players, as well as Rosenior's squad management, will be under scrutiny. The full schedule of matches is available on our fixtures page. Paris FC will therefore host Lyon on 12 September.