Besiktas have issued an official medical update on Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi following the injury he sustained while on international duty at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Turkish Super Lig club confirmed that Ndidi suffered a left hamstring strain accompanied by bleeding in the biceps femoris muscle, an injury picked up during Nigeria’s AFCON quarter-final clash against Algeria. The midfielder was forced to leave the pitch in the 70th minute, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of crucial club fixtures.
According to Besiktas, an MRI scan carried out after Ndidi returned from national team duty revealed the extent of the injury, and treatment has since commenced under the supervision of the club’s medical staff. However, the Istanbul giants did not provide a definitive timeline for his return to competitive action.
While the club remained cautious in its prognosis, reports from Turkey suggest Ndidi is expected to miss at least Besiktas’ next two league matches, including fixtures against Kayserispor and Eyüpspor, as he undergoes rehabilitation.
Ndidi joined Besiktas as a key midfield reinforcement and has quickly become an important figure in the squad, making his absence a potential setback as the club continues its push in domestic competitions.
Editorial
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Wilfred Ndidi’s injury once again highlights the physical toll elite international tournaments place on African footballers, many of whom transition almost immediately back into demanding club schedules.
For Besiktas, losing a player of Ndidi’s calibre even temporarily — disrupts balance in midfield, particularly his ball-winning presence and tactical discipline. For Nigeria, the injury raises longer-term concerns as the Super Eagles continue rebuilding under a new technical direction post-AFCON.
Careful management will be crucial. Rushing Ndidi back could worsen the injury, while patience may ensure he returns stronger for both club and country. In an era where fixture congestion is relentless, player welfare must take precedence over short-term gains.
Did You Know?
- Ndidi captained Nigeria at AFCON 2025, marking his first major tournament as full-time Super Eagles skipper.
- The biceps femoris muscle is one of the most commonly injured hamstring muscles among defensive midfielders due to frequent sprinting and tackling.
- Ndidi was substituted during Nigeria’s quarter-final win despite playing through visible discomfort before being forced off.
- Besiktas signed Ndidi to add experience and leadership to their midfield following his long Premier League career.
- Hamstring injuries typically require 2–6 weeks of recovery, depending on severity and response to treatment.
