Leonardo Balerdi
ROM
Set to return soon
Balerdi (calf) could be back available in the next few days after missing the weekend match against Strasbourg, as coach Bruno Genesio said in a press conference relayed by ActuLigue 1 that the tests were reassuring and the defender should resume training at the start of the week before being available against Monaco.
Analysis: This is a positive update after Balerdi was left out of the squad for the season opener. If he returns to training early in the week as expected, Marseille could have a regular option back in central defense for the Monaco match, and he may be selected over Conrad Jonathan Egan-Riley (ankle), especially if the latter is not fit. During the previous campaign, Balerdi averaged 3.9 clearances and 1.9 tackles per game, which is the output he can usually be relied on for.
Left out of squad for Strasbourg opener
Balerdi (calf) is not in Marseille's squad for Friday's season opener against Strasbourg.
Analysis: Balerdi's calf issue evidently did not clear up in time, confirming the uncertainty that had lingered over his fitness in the buildup to the match. Two of Derek Cornelius, Geoffrey Kondogbia and Conrad Jonathan Egan-Riley are expected to form the central defensive pairing in his absence, with Balerdi now set to be reassessed as Marseille look toward their next fixture.
Uncertain for season opener
Balerdi is uncertain for Friday's season opener against Strasbourg due to a calf alert, according to coach Bruno Genesio. "Balerdi is uncertain for Strasbourg because of a calf alert."
Analysis: Balerdi's fitness will need to be monitored closely over the coming days as Marseille finalize their squad plans for the opener. If he is unable to go, Derek Cornelius is expected to pair in central defense with either Geoffrey Kondogbia or Conrad Jonathan Egan-Riley. Balerdi is expected to be given until close to kickoff to prove his fitness before a final call is made.
Confirmed absence for World Cup
Balerdi (leg) suffered a right leg injury and won't participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the team announced Saturday.
Analysis: Balerdi suffered the injury in Friday's session, and further tests revealed that the Marseille center-back won't recover in time to be an option for the World Cup. It hasn't been announced who will take his place in the squad.
Suffers leg injury in training
Balerdi is expected to be ruled out of the World Cup after suffering a serious leg injury during Argentina's training session on Friday, with sources indicating a minimum recovery period of one month, according to Nacho Rivarola of eltrece.
Analysis: Balerdi's injury is a devastating blow for both the player and Argentina heading into the tournament, with the defender losing his chance to represent the defending world champions. Coach Lionel Scaloni will likely now need to make an injury-enforced change to the squad before the opener against Algeria on June 16, with the federation expected to confirm a replacement in the coming hours.
Seven shots in draw
Balerdi had seven shots (one on goal) and one chance created in Sunday's 1-1 draw versus Nice.
Analysis: Balerdi was Marseille's most aggressive threat in Sunday's 1-1 home draw against Nice in the derby, ripping off seven shots but wasting two big chances that could have killed the game long before Elye Wahi's late equalizer. He also chipped in defensively with four tackles (three won) and three clearances in what was otherwise a well-rounded showing on both sides of the ball. That said, his lack of composure in front of goal ultimately kept the door open and took some shine off an otherwise strong performance.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare