Loïs Openda's medical examinations have not allayed concerns about her physical condition. The Belgian striker, who was already injured during his return to Lens, now risks missing the Europa League match against Crystal Palace and could also be unavailable for the duel against Nice.
Openda suffered an injury to his right leg on Friday after a collision with Lens defender Ismaëlo Ganiou. He limped off the pitch and was seen on crutches in post-match footage, which alarmed Paulo Fonseca's staff. Despite the examinations carried out, information from the daily *Le Progrès* indicates that he will not be able to participate in Thursday's match against Crystal Palace. This absence is confirmed by Foot Mercato, which published a tweet announcing that the player will not be able to play.
The problem is not limited to this European match. According to the same daily, Openda's injury could force him to forfeit the next clash against Nice. Fonseca therefore finds himself having to prepare two important matches without his center forward. The club has not yet officially communicated on the precise nature of the injury or the duration of unavailability, which leaves caution in place.
This situation is all the more frustrating as Openda had just returned to Lens, a club he knows well. His meeting was interrupted prematurely after the clash with Ganiou, and his movement on crutches confirmed the first concerns. OL will have to monitor the development of the Belgian international's right leg on a daily basis.
While awaiting official medical communication, Paulo Fonseca must consider playing without Openda in the duel against Crystal Palace and remain vigilant for the match against Nice. Doubt persists as to the player's availability for the two upcoming matches.