Abdelmonem back in training with Nice after year out with cruciate injury

Mohamed Abdelmonem has returned to training with Nice as the Egypt defender begins his preparations for the new season following a serious knee injury that ruled him out for an entire campaign.

The 25-year-old centre-back, who missed the whole of last season after suffering a ruptured cruciate ligament in his knee in April 2025, took part in a session at the French club’s training base on Thursday.

Nice confirmed his return by posting a picture of Abdelmonem running alone on their official channels, accompanied by the caption: “المصري بتاعنا رجع” – Arabic for “Our Egyptian is back.”

A source at Nice told FilGoal.com that Abdelmonem will initially train on his own as he continues his recovery and build-up to full fitness.

Abdelmonem, who joined Nice from Al Ahly in the summer of 2024 in a deal worth $4m, is under contract with the Ligue 1 side until the summer of 2028.

Nice step up pre-season plans

Nice will play three friendly matches as they gear up for the new campaign, starting with a high-profile meeting against Juventus on Friday.

Francesco Farioli’s side are then scheduled to face Cagliari on 8 August before taking on Hull City on 15 August as part of their pre-season programme.

Nice open their league campaign against Lorient on 22 August.

World Cup involvement with Egypt

Despite his long-term injury absence at club level, Abdelmonem was included in Egypt’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

He started the Pharaohs’ third group match against Iran but was forced off through injury after just 14 minutes.

The defender had also made a brief appearance in Egypt’s second group game against New Zealand, coming on as a late substitute in the final minute.

Abdelmonem’s latest step in his rehabilitation at Nice raises hopes that he will be available to contribute over the course of the upcoming season after a disrupted spell since his move from Al Ahly.