Grenoble Foot 38 face Rodez this Friday in Ligue 2 with a squad reshaped by injuries and late returns. Le Dauphiné Libéré detailed the Isère club's situation this Wednesday ahead of this important away fixture.
The team currently sits 8th in the championship, with 7 points from two wins, one draw, and two losses in five matches. Their offensive and defensive record is perfectly balanced with 11 goals scored and 11 conceded. They are, however, eight points behind leaders Saint-Étienne ahead of this encounter.
Who is missing for Grenoble?
Grenoble's defensive department is particularly affected. Goalkeeper Arthur Lallias, who underwent back surgery, will not play again until early 2027. This is a significant absence for the squad's depth. In defense, Leonardo Cerri is still recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the heavy 3-0 loss to Laval. Left-back Ange-Loïc Ngatta is sidelined with a persistent knee issue. These three long-term absences force the manager to rethink his starting lineup.
Who is returning to the squad?
On the positive side, striker Moussa Djitté returns to the group and can provide rotation in the attacking line. The two late transfer window signings, Yvann Maçon and Owen Kouassi, have been declared fit for the match. Maçon, a defender, could even slot directly into the starting defense at Rodez. Midfielder Owen Kouassi, also signed this summer, is expected to be on the bench for his debut. Brazilian midfielder Ze Leité, a July signing, will also be available.
What is the sporting context for Rodez?
Rodez hosts Grenoble in a particular context. The Aveyron team, occupying 16th place in the table, will look to bounce back in front of their home fans. For Grenoble, led by their season-starting captain Maël Corboz, the goal is to confirm their solid start and remain in the upper part of the table. The schedule is busy and you can check all upcoming matches on our fixtures page.
What is the league standing situation?
With 7 points, Grenoble remains in a comfortable position but needs to string together good results to keep pace with the top spots. The eight-point deficit to Saint-Étienne shows that the margin for error is slim. The team displays inconsistent form with a recent sequence of LDWLW. To follow the evolution of the Ligue 2 table, visit our standings section.
The outcome of this match at Rodez could have a direct impact on the mid-September standings. Rodez's next fixture is scheduled at home against this same Grenoble side on September 11, 2026.
