Nigeria could be without midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi for several weeks after the Super Eagles international suffered a knee injury during Marseille’s 2-0 Ligue 1 defeat by AS Monaco.
The 23-year-old is facing a period on the sidelines after feeling a twist in his knee during Sunday’s match, creating concerns for both Marseille and Nigeria.
Nnadi is expected to undergo further examinations to determine the full extent of the injury after an MRI earlier in the week raised fears of a more serious problem.
According to information from La Minute OM, the Marseille midfielder is expected to miss several weeks.
There are also fears that the injury could be severe enough to keep him out for much longer, with a possible end to his season mentioned.
Further medical tests will be needed before the extent of the absence is confirmed.
For Nigeria, the setback could deprive the Super Eagles of an important midfield option.
Nnadi joined Marseille only a few months ago after establishing himself as a professional midfielder and has been part of the Nigeria national team.
His injury now threatens to interrupt his progress at club level while also leaving his country without his services during his recovery.
The injury came during a difficult match for Marseille, who were beaten 2-0 by Monaco.
Nnadi felt a twist in his knee during the game and was unable to continue normally, prompting concerns over the nature of the injury.
The midfielder had arrived at Marseille to provide greater solidity and additional options in the middle of the pitch. His expected absence therefore represents a significant loss for the French club.
It could also prove costly for Nigeria, particularly because Nnadi’s role at international level means his availability is important to the Super Eagles.
The Nigerian will now have to wait for the results of his additional examinations before knowing how long he will be unavailable.
Nnadi’s immediate priority will be recovery and determining the full extent of the knee injury.
Until the medical assessment is completed, neither Marseille nor Nigeria will know the precise length of his absence.
What is already clear is that the injury has created another problem for Marseille and a potential headache for the Super Eagles.
