OGC Nice Explains Defender Ali Abdi's Temporary Departure Amidst Playoff Matches

OGC Nice has issued a clarification regarding the temporary absence of its Tunisian defender, Ali Abdi, during critical playoff matches. The club stated that discussions with the Tunisian Football Federation to allow Abdi to play in both playoff games for Nice failed due to a packed schedule complicated by FIFA dates.

Despite the scheduling challenges, Abdi had initially insisted on playing the first playoff match, demonstrating his commitment to OGC Nice. However, he was subsequently required to travel to Tunisia to finalize administrative steps related to obtaining a visa for the United States, in anticipation of a potential call-up for the Tunisian national team's World Cup preparations.

The club described the situation as an "imbroglio" arising from conflicting demands: Abdi needed to represent his club in a crucial match while also fulfilling administrative requirements for his national team. OGC Nice emphasized that the Tunisian international remains fully committed and determined to return quickly to support his teammates in the upcoming second-leg match.

Responding to the significant attention the matter received on social media, OGC Nice condemned the threats directed at Ali Abdi. The club appealed for calm and respect for the player, whom they consider, along with the club itself, a victim of this complex situation. Abdi was named in Tunisia's 26-player squad for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held from June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. He joined the Tunisian national team's training camp after Nice's 0-0 draw against AS Saint-Etienne in the first leg of their Ligue 1 relegation playoff.