Otávio Suspended: Who Will Replace Him Against Strasbourg?

Why the Suspension?

Paris FC’s 2-1 win at Brest on September 14 gave the team a second straight victory but came at a price: center back Otávio was shown a straight red card in the 84th minute for a foul on Ludovic Ajorque. The Brazilian will miss the next home match against Strasbourg, scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Stade Jean Bouin. This one-game ban forces the coaching staff to rethink their defensive setup for this Ligue 1 fixture.

Otávio, 23, signed from FC Porto this summer for €17 million plus €3 million in bonuses, had started all four league matches since Paris FC’s promotion. His red card, deemed harsh by some observers, forced the side to finish with ten men, yet they held on for the win. Since the suspension covers only one match, he’ll be available again for the trip to Nice on September 28.

This absence comes while Paris FC sits mid-table with six points from four games, and they now face a Strasbourg side known for quick transitions despite inconsistent results.

Options to Replace Otávio

• Timothée Kolodziejczak: At 33, the veteran formerly of Saint-Étienne, Sevilla and Tigres stepped on in the 87th minute at Brest to cover Otávio. Equally at ease in central defense or at left-back, his international experience and Ligue 1 know-how make him the most obvious choice.

• Samir Chergui: Played at right-back against Brest and could shift centrally if needed. His ball-playing skills add a tactical edge.

• Nhoa Sangui or Sofiane Alakouch: Both natural full-backs are fit and available, though their profiles suit the flanks more than the center.

• Squad status: No major injury concerns beyond forward Pierre-Yves Hamel, who is doubtful with an adductor issue.

Probable Defensive Lineup

Coach Stéphane Gilli favors a 4-3-3. Against Strasbourg, he might line up:

• Defense: Chergui / Mbow / Kolodziejczak / De Smet

• Midfield: Lopez / Lees-Melou / Marchetti

• Attack: Geubbels / Simon / Kebbal

A shift to a 4-4-2 remains possible if the match demands more midfield solidity.

Tactical Implications

Losing Otávio means adapting the defensive block and transitional play. Paris FC builds from a solid back line and strikes quickly through the wings, especially with Willy Geubbels and Moses Simon leading the breaks. Kolodziejczak’s slower pace compared to Otávio could force a deeper defensive line against Strasbourg’s forwards like Emanuel Emegha.

At home, maintaining ball control to limit turnovers and hitting on counters will remain priorities. Kolodziejczak’s composure in buildup may even offer new passing angles from the back. Against a Strasbourg side capable of dynamic attacking spells but prone to inconsistency, the fixture should be finely balanced.

Ultimately, this single-match suspension shouldn’t derail Paris FC’s organization. The squad’s depth can absorb one absence, and the collective experience from the opening rounds provides a strong platform for this challenge.