Egypt star Mostafa Mohamed returns to Nantes training after weeks of absence

Egypt international Mostafa Mohamed has finally returned to FC Nantes after weeks of unexplained absence, ending speculation surrounding his whereabouts as the French club weighs up its next move regarding the striker’s future.

The 28-year-old forward had failed to report for pre-season training when Nantes resumed preparations for the new campaign on June 24, raising concerns within the club after he also reportedly stopped responding to attempts to contact him.

His prolonged absence sparked uncertainty over his future at the Ligue 1 side, with the striker neither attending training sessions nor maintaining communication with club officials during the opening weeks of pre-season.

However, French newspaper Ouest-France has reported that the Egyptian international has now rejoined the club’s training base.

Mostafa Mohamed returned this week and took part in an individual training session on Wednesday, July 22, marking his first appearance at the club since pre-season preparations began.

Despite his return, the striker is not expected to immediately reintegrate into the first-team squad.

According to the report, Nantes have decided that Mohamed will continue his pre-season preparations with the club’s reserve team while the hierarchy assesses the situation and determines the next course of action.

The arrangement suggests the Ligue 1 outfit is taking a cautious approach following the player’s unexplained absence, with his immediate future at the club remaining uncertain.

Club officials are expected to evaluate both his physical condition and disciplinary situation before deciding whether he will be reinstated into the senior squad or whether other measures will be taken.

Mohamed’s absence had generated significant attention in France and Egypt, particularly given his importance to the Egyptian national team and his status as one of Nantes’ experienced attacking options.

The striker has been a familiar face in Ligue 1 since joining Nantes and has played a key role in the club’s attack over recent seasons, earning a reputation for his physical presence, aerial ability and eye for goal.

His return to training is a positive step, but it does not necessarily signal an immediate resolution to the uncertainty surrounding his future.

With Nantes continuing their preparations for the upcoming campaign, the club is expected to make a decision in the coming days regarding Mohamed’s status, as he continues to work separately from the first team.

For now, the Egyptian forward’s focus will be on rebuilding his fitness and regaining the confidence of the club as he seeks to put a difficult start to pre-season behind him.