Nantes coach Antoine Kombouaré has revealed that Nigerian forward Moses Simon is managing an ankle problem, making him a doubt for the Super Eagles’ crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month.
Simon’s fitness has been a concern since he played only the final 20 minutes of their 1-0 defeat against Strasbourg last weekend. Kombouaré expressed his concerns about Simon’s ankle, stating that it’s still hurting and that they’re managing the situation carefully.
“He hasn’t trained all week. He stayed in the gym Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, but he completed the session today,” Kombouaré said ahead of their clash against Lille. “His ankle is still hurting. There’s obviously some concern. We’re managing it, but for him, it’s complicated.”
Simon has been Nantes’ best player this season, with 13 goal contributions (six goals and seven assists). His potential absence would be a significant blow to the team, which is battling to stay clear of the relegation zone.
Nigeria will face Rwanda in Kigali on Friday, March 21, before returning to the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo to face Zimbabwe on Tuesday, March 25. If Simon eventually pulls out of Nigeria’s squad for the clashes, coach Eric Chelle might have to look for direct or similar replacements in attack or still use the chance to add one more midfielder to the team.
The Super Eagles have already been hit by one injury concern ahead of the qualifiers, with Bayer Leverkusen forward pulling out, and Gent defender Jordan Torunarigha being called up to replace him.
Simon suffered a fractured fibula last March, which sidelined him for over four months. In December, he underwent surgery to remove screws implanted during his recovery, but he continues to experience discomfort.
Nantes are currently 14th in the Ligue 1 table with 24 points, just three points above the drop zone. They face Lille on Saturday, and Simon’s potential absence would be a significant concern for the team.
The Nigerian forward has been instrumental in Nantes’ survival hopes this season, and his fitness will be closely monitored in the coming days.