Everton: a 9-match absence looms for Idrissa Gana Gueye

Everton: Gana Gueye set to miss 9 matches

Everton: a 9-match absence looms for Idrissa Gana Gueye

Everton are still savoring a resounding victory at Old Trafford, but the incident that marked the match continues to make headlines. Sent off after just thirteen minutes following a surprising altercation with teammate Michael Keane, Idrissa Gana Gueye instantly found himself at the heart of a rare Premier League controversy. The usually impeccable Senegalese midfielder was quick to take responsibility for his actions:

"I fully accept responsibility for my reaction. There is no excuse for such behavior," he stated,

while offering his apologies to Keane, his teammates, and the fans.

This red card puts Everton in a tricky position. Gueye, already suspended for three matches due to violent conduct, will also be absent for an extended period as he joins Senegal for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Should the Lions of Teranga go all the way in the tournament, the player could miss nine of the next ten Premier League fixtures—an enormous void in the Toffees' midfield. Nevertheless, the club has no intention of rushing into the winter transfer market: management believes there are enough internal options to temporarily compensate for his absence.

"I like my players to show character. I don't think anyone would have been surprised if nothing had happened," he said after the match.

Still, this suspension disrupts the manager's plans, forcing him to rely on James Garner, Tim Iroegbunam, or even Charly Alcaraz to maintain balance in the midfield while Gana Gueye serves his ban and then returns from his continental adventure with Senegal.