Ali Abdi expected to miss Nice relagtion playoffs due to Tunsia call -up

Tunisian defender Ali Abdi is not expected to feature for OGC Nice in their upcoming Ligue 1 play-off matches against AS Saint-Etienne next week.

Nice are preparing for two decisive matches against Saint-Etienne as they attempt to preserve their place in the French top flight, but the club could be without one of their regular players for the fixtures.

According to the latest reports, Abdi is set to leave the French club immediately after the Coupe de France final and join the Tunisian national team camp ahead of preparations linked to the 2026 World Cup.

The Tunisian Football Federation has reportedly refused to allow the defender to remain with Nice beyond the FIFA deadline of May 24, creating uncertainty over his availability for the relegation play-off ties.

Abdi has already been called up by Tunisia national football team and is expected to report to the squad’s training camp in Tabarka shortly after Nice’s Coupe de France final against RC Lens tomorrow.

His expected absence comes at a difficult moment for Nice, who face two crucial matches that will determine whether they remain in Ligue 1. The club must navigate the play-offs without one of their experienced defensive options as preparations intensify ahead of the first meeting with Saint-Etienne.

The situation has emerged due to scheduling conflicts between club commitments and international preparations, with Tunisia beginning work early for upcoming World Cup-related activities.

Abdi’s departure would mean his final appearance for Nice this season is likely to come in the Coupe de France final against Lens before he switches focus to international duty.

For Tunisia, the defender’s early arrival at camp is seen as part of the country’s wider preparations for the 2026 World Cup. For Nice, however, his absence could become a significant setback as the club attempts to secure survival in the top division.