Guingamp loses Samoura as Gomis returns to group training

Guingamp announced on Monday that forward Amadou Samoura injured his thigh at the end of training, while central defender Donatien Gomis has rejoined collective sessions after a long recovery. The club, currently 11th in Ligue 2 with 40 points (10W‑10D‑14L), will have to cope without Samoura for Friday’s friendlies in Dinard.

What is the nature of Samoura’s injury?

Coach Sylvain Ripoll explained that Samoura “got hurt yesterday (Monday) at the end of training”. Exams are scheduled to decide whether it is a minor muscle strain or something more serious. The player, already sidelined since his spectacular debut in January, may miss at least another week. No replacement has been named for the two friendlies against Stade Lavallois and Red Star.

Why is Gomis’s return important?

Donatien Gomis, who suffered a severe thigh muscle injury at the end of April, resumed group training earlier this week. As a precaution, the Senegalese only takes part in one session per day, instead of the usual two. His comeback strengthens the central defence, a unit that has conceded 49 goals this season, leaving a –7 goal difference.

Which other absences are weighing on the squad?

Florent Sanchez, whose contract is still pending full approval, is limited to physical work and non‑oppositional drills after a pubalgia operation in April. Amine Hemia attends all sessions but is still not cleared for contact. Neither will feature in Guingamp’s first test at Dinard, leaving the manager with a trimmed roster for the two friendlies.

What impact will this have on the upcoming matches?

Samoura’s absence and the restrictions on Sanchez and Hemia leave Guingamp with a reduced squad for the friendlies. The club will have to rely on available players to keep the level before the league resumes. The last official result remains a 1‑0 loss to Clermont Foot on 9 May 2026, and the recent form (LLLLL) shows the team struggling to find a win.

What is the season’s broader context?

Currently 11th in Ligue 2 with 40 points, Guingamp sits 27 points behind leaders ESTAC Troyes. The campaign has produced 42 goals scored and 49 conceded, highlighting defensive woes. The club hopes that Gomis’s gradual return and Samoura’s recovery will help reverse the trend before the next crucial set of fixtures.