Nice has reportedly faced an unexpected situation ahead of its crucial relegation playoff second leg against Saint-Étienne. While coach Claude Puel welcomed back several important players such as Elye Wahi, Yehvann Diouf, and Antoine Mendy, the club also discovered that Ali Abdi had left to join Tunisia’s preparation camp for the World Cup 2026 without receiving official authorization from Nice.
According to reports from France, the Tunisian international decided to travel to Tunisia despite the importance of Nice’s upcoming match, where the club fights to avoid relegation to Ligue 2 after a difficult season. The situation has reportedly angered the club’s management, especially after Nice worked to keep several international players available before the playoff clash.
French media also reported that Ali Abdi could now face disciplinary sanctions from Nice because of his unauthorized departure. The 32-year-old defender currently remains with Tunisia as preparations continue for the World Cup 2026.
