As the international break unfolds for European football, Eintracht Frankfurt faces a mixed bag of news regarding its squad. With thirteen players from the team called up to represent their respective national teams, the excitement is slightly dampened by the absence of two key players who will remain in Frankfurt due to injuries.
The first international period of 2025 has kicked off, spanning from March 17 to March 25. Among the players on national duty are fan favorites, though notable injuries to midfielder Hugo Larsson and defender Ellyes Skhiri have forced them out of international matches. Both players picked up their injuries during the recent Bundesliga clash against Bochum, with Larsson grappling with a groin issue and Skhiri suffering from a jarred knee.
The match against Bochum on March 15-16 was particularly pivotal for the Eagles, which they won 3-1. Despite their victories, Larsson and Skhiri’s injuries are a significant blow. According to reports from Kicker, the duo’s injuries aren't seen as severe, which brings some relief to fans and teammates alike. Larsson is optimistic about his chances of returning to the field for the home match against VfB Stuttgart following the international break, while Skhiri might need more time but is not expected to be out for long. "Hugo Larsson could be fit for the home game against VfB Stuttgart following the international break," noted Kicker.
Meanwhile, another player, Elye Wahi, recently transferred to Eintracht Frankfurt from Olympique Marseille for a hefty fee of €26 million, has encountered his own challenges. Wahi has not yet made a significant impact in his new role, and now, a knee injury sustained during training has sidelined him for several weeks. Kicker reported, "Elye Wahi has a knee injury that will keep him out of action for several weeks," marking yet another hurdle for him as he adjusts to life in the Bundesliga.
The news of Wahi’s injury is particularly troubling given the degree of investment made in him during the winter transfer window. Fans were eager to see how he would contribute to Eintracht’s attacking line-up, especially following the departure of some key players earlier in the season. However, with him now missing, the squad will need to rely on other resources to maintain their momentum.
Eintracht Frankfurt's management and coaching staff are now tasked with figuring out how to balance squad depth and performance without these important players. As they work through their recovery, the pivotal matches coming up after the international break will showcase whether the team can rally and find their footing amid the injuries. The upcoming game against VfB Stuttgart could serve as a crucial point in the season—a match where the squad’s adaptability will be put to the test.
Fans of Eintracht Frankfurt have reason to stay hopeful. Injuries, while unfortunate, are a common part of the sport, and with a squad rich in talent and experience, the team's morale remains buoyed. Coach Oliver Glasner has a proven track record of utilizing his roster effectively, and the support from the fans will undoubtedly play a part in bolstering the players who will be on the pitch.
As the international break progresses, the anticipation for the return of Larsson, Skhiri, and Wahi grows. Each player's recovery will be monitored closely, with updates expected in the ensuing weeks. In football, it’s always about the collective effort, and Eintracht Frankfurt will be eager to bring their best game when they return to action after the break. With a bit of luck, the Eagles will fly high against Stuttgart, possibly making a statement that their challenges will not hold them back.
