Nice boosted as Youssouf Ndayishimiye and Mohamed Abdelmonem return to training

OGC Nice have been boosted by the return to full training of defenders Youssouf Ndayishimiye and Mohamed Abdelmonem ahead of their upcoming Ligue 1 meeting with FC Lorient.

The pair took part fully in Tuesday’s team session, signalling encouraging progress after extended periods on the sidelines.

Their availability comes at a key moment in the domestic calendar, offering Nice renewed defensive options just days before an important league fixture.

For head coach Claude Puel, the timing is significant. Both players are regarded as central figures in the defensive structure, and their return restores experience and balance to a back line that has faced disruption in recent weeks.

Ndayishimiye, who joined the club in the winter of 2023, had grown into a leadership role in defence prior to being ruled out by a persistent muscle problem.

His absence forced tactical adjustments and rotation within the squad, underlining his importance to the team’s organisation at the back.

Abdelmonem has also endured a challenging spell away from competitive action. The Egyptian defender had been managing recurring knee discomfort, limiting his availability and continuity.

His return to collective training suggests that recovery efforts have reached an advanced stage, providing further depth and competition for places.

The simultaneous comeback of both defenders is expected to strengthen Nice’s defensive unit, which has at times been stretched by injuries.

Greater selection flexibility could allow the coaching staff to re-establish familiar partnerships and improve overall stability.

While final decisions on match involvement will depend on fitness assessments, the sight of both players training normally has been viewed as a positive development inside the club.

Their presence adds experience and reassurance as Nice prepare for a demanding league encounter.

With preparations intensifying, the focus now shifts to integrating the returning defenders smoothly and ensuring they are physically ready.

For Nice, the timing offers a welcome lift as they aim to approach the Lorient fixture with renewed defensive confidence.