Lille’s Anticipated Starting XI for Crucial Derby du Nord Clash

As Lille prepares to face their regional rivals Lens in the highly anticipated Derby du Nord, manager Bruno Genesio must contend with several key absences. Despite Edon Zhegrova’s progress towards full fitness, the Kosovan winger remains unavailable for Sunday’s match.

Mitchell Bakker is likely to fill in on the right flank, while the suspended Alexsandro’s center-back position is expected to be occupied by Aïssa Mandi, partnering with Bafodé Diakité. The injury-sidelined Ethan Mbappé will also miss this crucial encounter.

English midfielder Angel Gomes is once again predicted to start on the bench, with Genesio favoring a midfield trio of Ayyoub Bouaddi, Benjamin André, and Ngal’ayel Mukau.

Lille’s Projected Lineup Against Lens:

Goalkeeper: Lucas Chevalier
Defenders: Ismaily, Bafodé Diakité, Aïssa Mandi, Thomas Meunier
Midfielders: Ayyoub Bouaddi, Benjamin André, Ngal’ayel Mukau
Forwards: Hakon Arnar Haraldsson, Jonathan David, Mitchell Bakker

This lineup reflects Lille’s tactical adjustments in response to their current squad availability, as they aim to secure a positive result in this important regional derby.