As the season’s recovery in Metz approached, Racing coach Liam Rosenior announced that player Ismaël Doukuré would be left out. This decision follows the defender’s refusal to extend his contract by one year. Rosenior stressed his admiration for Doukuré, welcoming his qualities and work, but justified this measure by the need to protect the club’s interests, since the player was one year from the end of his contract and no extension agreement had been reached. Although the door is not formally closed, Doukuré will now evolve with the reserve and will not be available for the upcoming match against Metz.

At the same time, Strasbourg captain Emaënuel Emegha expressed at a press conference the determination of his team to qualify for the Champions League, not just to participate. Emegha stressed the importance of winning the games, especially in the dam, and said the team focused first on the game in Metz before thinking about their opponent, Brondby. He also shared his honour and pride in being captain, emphasizing his desire to set an example and his joy at having received the armband after the departure of Habib Diawara.

Racing’s new captain, Emaënuel Emegha, expressed his enthusiasm for playing a derby early in the season. He highlighted the team’s motivation to be better than the previous season and the importance of winning in Metz before focusing on the next challenge against Brondby. Emegha also reassured about his health after a summer injury, indicating that he feels well and ready to meet the challenges of the season, with the ambition to go as far as possible.