Egyptian international Mohamed Abdelmonem has confirmed his return to training with French side OGC Nice following a lengthy absence caused by a cruciate ligament injury sustained before the end of last season.
The defender shared photos from Tuesday’s training session, showing his teammates warmly welcoming him back, and accompanied the images with an emotional message reflecting on the difficult period he endured away from the pitch.
“Thank God always and forever. Today is my first day of training after the most difficult period of my life, which put me in a state of depression and anxiety about the future. It made me see my future differently than what I had dreamed of, but the constant thought here is that I will not give up on my dream and that I can overcome any difficult stage..” Abdelmonem wrote.
The Egyptian national team player explained that the support he received during his recovery had a deep psychological impact on him and strengthened his sense of responsibility to those who stood by him.
“I felt the amount of love, sympathy, and support I received when I got injured, and this affected me psychologically, but at the same time it made me feel responsible towards them. I was working with my goal in front of my eyes, and that I would come back and live up to their expectations.
“From here, I felt that everything I had achieved was not due to my own cleverness, but rather God’s arrangements for me. I got closer to Him, I felt content, and I felt that God was telling me not to worry, that He was by my side and would not leave me, so I felt at peace,” he said.
Reflecting on how the experience reshaped his outlook, the former Al Ahly defender stressed the importance of faith and genuine relationships beyond football success.
“And here the thinking changed when I felt satisfied. Success is very important, but more important than it is your relationship with God, and one of the most important blessings is the people who love you sincerely and whose presence in your life makes you a better person,” he shared.
Abdelmonem further highlighted the values he now holds closest after his ordeal.
“I learned to be grateful without conditions, to strive, work, and get tired, but at the same time to preserve my true treasures: my family, my friends, and the hearts that stand by you at every moment, because these are the ones who remain when you get tired, sick, or even pass away. What truly remains is the memory, the sweet prayer, and the moment that leaves an impact on everyone’s heart, because the real investment is investing in memories; it makes moments live beyond a person’s lifespan,” he added.
His return to training marks a significant step in his recovery journey, as he looks to rebuild his career after one of the most challenging chapters of his life.
