Ali Abdi says he wanted to stay at Nice, not go to World Cup

Ali Abdi has explained his decision to leave OGC Nice before the club’s relegation playoff against Saint-Etienne, saying his first intention was to stay and help the team. The Tunisia international’s account addresses an episode that created tension at the end of last season, when Nice wanted to retain its internationals for the decisive tie.

Abdi eventually left to prepare for the World Cup with Tunisia, a move that was understood at the time to have taken place without Nice’s approval and could have led to disciplinary action. The 32-year-old left-back said he had told Florian Maurice that he would remain with the club because he did not want to leave the group during its fight to preserve its Ligue 1 status. His comments offer his explanation of a departure that had caused confusion around the club.

Nice has accompanied Abdi in his effort to clarify the matter and start again after several difficult months. The player has also returned to action, featuring for 15 minutes in the 1-1 draw with Le Mans. That appearance came as he expressed strong motivation for the new season and a desire to continue his adventure with the club.

Abdi joined Nice from SM Caen during the 2024-25 season in a €500,000 transfer. He had previously played for Paris FC, Club Africain and Esperance. His current return comes alongside a squad role that has been interrupted by adductor pain and a pelvic injury, while his immediate focus is on rebuilding his place at Nice.