Mounting pressure: Algerian midfielder Hichem Boudaoui’s future at OGC Nice in doubt after fresh omission

Hichem Boudaoui’s position at OGC Nice appears increasingly uncertain after the midfielder was left out of the squad once again, intensifying speculation over a possible departure at the end of the season.

The Algerian international has now been omitted for the third time in six Ligue 1 matches since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Nice travelled without him for their recent league fixture, with no official explanation provided.

Local media reports cited an “illness”, although the club has not confirmed the reason for his absence.

The silence has fuelled suggestions that the decision may have been technical.

Boudaoui’s difficulties began following his return from Morocco, where he featured prominently for Algeria during the continental tournament.

Since rejoining his club side, he has struggled to regain a consistent role under head coach Claude Puel.

In the immediate aftermath of Algeria’s quarter-final exit, Boudaoui did not feature in four successive matches.

Nice played twice in Ligue 1 — against Toulouse and Nantes — and twice in the Europa League, facing Go Ahead Eagles and Ludogorets, without the midfielder seeing any action.

Although he later made brief substitute appearances, including in the draw at Brest and another outing in Lyon, his involvement remained limited.

His minutes gradually increased, from short cameos to a 26-minute appearance against Lorient, hinting at a possible reintegration.

However, he was subsequently left out of the squad for the derby against Monaco, raising fresh doubts.

Puel’s post-match comments following the victory at Nantes added to the uncertainty.

While praising his starting midfielders, he made no reference to Boudaoui when discussing absent players.

Attention now turns to Nice’s upcoming Coupe de France tie against Lorient.

With a place in the semi-finals at stake, the selection choices will be closely scrutinised.

Should Boudaoui again be overlooked, it would reinforce the belief that his future may lie away from the French Riviera once the current campaign concludes.

Interest from elsewhere, including previous approaches during the winter transfer window, suggests options may be available.

For now, however, Boudaoui remains on the margins as speculation surrounding his next move gathers pace.