Mohamed Abdelmonem made his return to match action on Wednesday, marking his first appearance since he suffered an ACL tear last season.
OGC Nice cleared Abdelmonem to play after he rejoined first-team training in late January. The club used the friendly with Racing Club de Grasse to rebuild the defender’s match rhythm.
Speaking after the match, Abdelmonem described the moment as emotional after such a long absence. “It was my first match after a long injury,” he said. “A lot happened, but thank God always.”
He admitted he felt conflicting emotions as he stepped back onto the pitch. “I have a wonderful feeling and a difficult one at the same time,” he said. “You miss football for a long time, then you return again.”
Mohamed Abdelmonem credited his teammates for easing him through the comeback steps. He also congratulated Youssouf Ndayishimiye, who returned from a similar ACL injury.
“We will be better in the next period and help the team more,” Abdelmonem said.
The former Al Ahly defender said he wants to contribute to the first team soon, alongside other returning players. He also stressed the team must improve its Ligue 1 standing. (Shorouk News)
“We look to improve Nice’s position in the table,” he said. “The situation does not satisfy the ambitions of the fans.”