Ndicka injury concern mounts for Côte d’Ivoire ahead of World Cup

Evan Ndicka remains uncertain as Cote d’Ivoire begins its World Cup 2026 campaign just days from opening play.

The AS Roma central defender did not participate in the 2-0 training match victory against Philadelphia Union II, the Elephants’ final rehearsal before their first match against Ecuador.

According to Ivorian press reports, Ndicka stayed away from the match and was the only squad player to not play a single minute. His absence confirms the defender is not yet fully recovered from muscle problems that have plagued him since the end of his club season.

The situation raises even more questions since Ndicka had already missed previous preparation matches, including the friendly against France. To date, the Ivorian Federation has published no official medical statement about the exact nature of his injury or any potential return timeline.

Despite this uncertainty, coach Emerse Fae could count on his entire group during this final test, except for the central defender. Ndicka’s evolution over the coming days will be closely watched as Cote d’Ivoire prepares to begin its World Cup journey.