Strasbourg faces a significant squad challenge ahead of their Ligue 1 clash with Stade Rennais this Sunday. Manager Gary O'Neil will be forced to plan without two influential figures, Valentin Barco and Guéla Doué, for the visit to the Stade de la Meinau.

The absence of Valentin Barco is a particular blow. The talented Argentine, who has been in sparkling form, twisted his ankle during the midweek Europa Conference League triumph over Mainz. While the injury is not considered serious—with a potential return for the Coupe de France clash against Nice—his creativity will be missed against a tough Rennes side.

He is joined on the sidelines by Guéla Doué, who is recovering from a virus. Their dual absence tests Strasbourg's depth and will require others to step up in a crucial domestic fixture. Adapting to such setbacks is part of the game, where resilience often defines a team's season.

In their stead, the predicted lineup showcases the squad's adaptability: Mike Penders; Ben Chilwell, Andrew Omobamidele, Lucas Hogsberg, Abdoul Ouattara; Maxi Oyedele, Samir El Mourabet; Martial Godo, Sébastien Nanasi, Gessime Yassine; Emanuel Emegha. This reshuffled XI will need to find its rhythm quickly to secure a positive result.