Geoffrey Kondogbia
OM
Cleared his fitness concern
Kondogbia is part of Marseille's squad for Friday's season opener against Strasbourg, the club announced.
Analysis: Kondogbia had worked in the gym rather than train with the group earlier in the week as a precaution, a decision that added to the club's list of fitness concerns heading into the opener, but his inclusion in the matchday squad now resolves that uncertainty. He's expected to be in the mix for a starting role in central defense alongside Derek Cornelius or Egan Conrad Jonathan Egan-Riley after Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out with a calf issue.
Sits out training as precaution
Kondogbia (undisclosed) worked in the gym and did not train with the group Wednesday as a precaution, according to coach Bruno Genesio. "Kondogbia worked in the gym and did not train as a precaution."
Analysis: Kondogbia's absence from the session adds another name to Marseille's list of fitness concerns just days before the season opener against Strasbourg. Should he be unavailable, Conrad Jonathan Egan-Riley could be in line to start in central defense in his place. Kondogbia is expected to be given the coming days to prove his fitness before a decision is made on his involvement. His situation will be one of several to track as Marseille finalize their defensive options for the opener.
Trains fully on first day
Kondogbia trained fully without issue on the first day of Marseille's preseason, the club posted.
Analysis: Kondogbia's clean bill of health is a welcome sign after a season plagued by muscular issues, including a thigh injury that sidelined him down the stretch. His health will be closely monitored as preseason progresses, but a smooth start bodes well for his chances of being fully available for Marseille's season opener. If he stays healthy, expect Kondogbia to regain his spot as a key piece of new coach Bruno Genesio's midfield setup.
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