Football clubs face squad challenges during international break

The upcoming international break presents squad management challenges for several football clubs as players are called up to their respective national teams.

At AS Saint-Étienne, manager Ian Cathro faces a potentially depleted roster due to a highly international summer recruitment. Key players likely to join national selections include Zuriko Davitashvili (Georgia), Irvin Cardona (Malta), and Ben Old (New Zealand). Other potential call-ups include Áron Csongvai (Hungary), Tamar Svetlin (Slovenia), and Thierno Ballo (Austria). The club may consider organizing a friendly match if the squad reduction is significant.

RSC Anderlecht coach Vitor Bruno is also monitoring potential absences during the 16-day break. While the defensive line remains relatively stable, Ali Maamar may be called up for Morocco, and Andrew Omobamidele is seeking a return to the Irish national team. Bruno noted that while player call-ups reflect the quality of the club's recruitment, losing core players during a period meant for tactical integration could be problematic.