Hicham Boudaoui’s continued absence from OGC Nice since the end of the Africa Cup of Nations has raised fresh questions, with the club confirming the Algerian midfielder will again miss Thursday’s Europa League fixture.
The 24-year-old has not featured for Nice since Algeria were knocked out of the 2025 AFCON at the quarter-final stage by Nigeria, despite expectations that he would return quickly to club action following the tournament.
While many of his international teammates have resumed competitive football with their clubs, Boudaoui remains sidelined, prompting uncertainty over his condition and availability.
Nice have now confirmed that Boudaoui will not be included in the squad for the home match against Go Ahead Eagles, a fixture that forms part of the seventh matchday of the Europa League group stage.
His absence continues a pattern that has seen the midfielder miss successive matches since returning from international duty.
Speaking ahead of the game, Nice head coach Claude Puel addressed the situation but offered only limited detail. “Boudaoui has been ill, so that will delay his return,” the French coach said during his pre-match press conference.
No further information was provided on the nature of the illness or the expected timeline for the player’s recovery.
At present, the duration of Boudaoui’s unavailability remains unclear. The Algerian international has yet to resume full training with the group, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his return to competitive action.
With no confirmed date for his comeback, the club appears to be proceeding cautiously.
The timing of the absence is particularly delicate for Nice. Boudaoui had been one of Algeria’s standout performers during the Africa Cup of Nations and returned from the tournament with his reputation enhanced, despite the team’s elimination.
His form at international level had fuelled expectations that he would play an important role in Nice’s domestic and European campaigns in the second half of the season.
His situation is further complicated by recent changes within the club. The appointment of Claude Puel as head coach has ushered in a new phase for the squad, with competition for places expected to intensify.
Boudaoui’s absence has denied him the opportunity to stake an early claim under the new management, making his eventual return all the more anticipated.
For now, Nice must continue without one of their key midfield options, while supporters await clearer news on when Boudaoui will be fit to rejoin the squad.
