AS Saint-Etienne, whose players have already crossed paths with USL Dunkerque this season, faces a major setback in its race for promotion to Ligue 1. Central defender Chico Lamba is forced to end his 2025-2026 season due to a stress fracture in his ankle, a significant blow for Les Verts.

Currently third in the Ligue 2 standings with 57 points, the Forez club is just one point behind Le Mans FC (58 points), who occupy the second spot, synonymous with direct promotion to Ligue 1. ASSE has two crucial matches remaining to try and overtake the Sarthois team: a perilous trip to Rodez AF this Saturday evening, followed by a home game against Amiens SC on Saturday, May 9th, at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.

This injury to Chico Lamba, aged 23, occurred after a match against ESTAC Troyes and adds to an already concerning list. ASSE will also have to do without Zuriko Davitashvili (25 years old), their Georgian winger and top scorer, who also suffered an ankle injury during the 32nd matchday of Ligue 2. These absences weigh heavily on the Saint-Etienne squad at a crucial point in the season.

The young Portuguese defender confirmed the end of his season via a poignant message on Instagram: "This is not how I wanted to end this season. But it's football. I am grateful for every moment spent on the field and for all the support I have received this year; it has never gone unnoticed 💚. We have two finals left to play. I will be there with the team to support them in every possible way. Let's finish strong."

This message from Les Verts' number 15 highlights his determination to support his teammates despite his unavailability. The 2025-2026 season has been complicated and disappointing for Chico Lamba, who has been regularly hampered by physical issues. His absence, combined with Davitashvili's, presents AS Saint-Etienne with a significant challenge to achieve their goal of returning to Ligue 1.