Moses Simon has emerged as a major injury concern for Nigeria ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Nantes have confirmed that the winger is still struggling with a fractured fibula, an issue that has plagued him since last March. Despite having screws removed earlier this season, he continues to experience pain and has been training on a limited basis.
Simon featured briefly in last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Strasbourg as he was left out of the starting lineup due to discomfort.
Speaking ahead of Nantes’ clash with Lille on Saturday, head coach Antoine Kombouaré said: “He hasn't trained all week. He stayed in the gym Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, but he completed the session today.
“His ankle is still hurting. There's obviously some concern. We're managing it, but for him, it's complicated.”
Moses Simon adds to selection dilemma as injuries pile up
Moses Simon's absence would be a huge blow for both club and country.
The 29-year-old has been one of Nantes’ best performers this season. In 23 Ligue 1 appearances (22 as a starter), he has recorded six goals and seven assists, directly contributing to nearly half of Nantes’ league goals.
The timing of Simon's injury could not be worse for the Super Eagles as well.
Head coach Eric Chelle has already seen Nathan Tella withdraw from the squad due to injury. With the former Levante man also struggling with his fitness, Nigeria’s wide options are now limited to Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman.
Possible replacements include Chidera Ejuke and Ahmed Musa.
The Super Eagles, winless in four qualifying fixtures, must beat Rwanda on March 21 and Zimbabwe on March 25 to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
