Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce is facing significant squad challenges as they prepare to host England's Nottingham Forest in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League round of 16 playoffs. Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the match, scheduled to kick off at 21:45 Baku time on February 19, 2026, comes at a critical juncture for the "Yellow Canaries" due to several key absences.
Head coach Domenico Tedesco will be forced to restructure his tactical approach following the confirmed absence of two vital players. According to official team updates, the following players will miss the encounter:
Edson Alvarez: The Mexican midfielder, who recently underwent ankle surgery, is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. He is expected to undergo rehabilitation for at least one month, with a projected return to the squad in April.
Archie Brown: Although the English left-back has recovered from a serious injury and resumed training, he is not yet match-fit. Reports indicate that Tedesco will not risk him for this high-intensity fixture; while he may be included in the matchday squad list, he is unlikely to feature in the starting lineup.
Furthermore, disciplinary concerns loom over the squad as Nelson Semedo and Oguz Aydin are currently on the verge of suspension. Should either player receive a yellow card during the home leg, they will be ineligible for the return match scheduled for February 26 in England. The match will be officiated by Sandro Scherer from the Swiss Football Association.
The UEFA Europa League remains a prestigious secondary club competition in European football, serving as a vital platform for clubs to secure silverware and a direct path to the Champions League. For Fenerbahce, navigating these injury setbacks is crucial for their continental ambitions, especially when facing Premier League opposition known for physical intensity and tactical discipline.
