Ndidi Injury Called a Muscle Strain, Recovery Underway

Besiktas have confirmed that Wilfred Ndidi picked up a thigh strain while on international duty with the Super Eagles. The 28 year old midfielder was substituted during Nigeria’s 1–1 draw with South Africa after suffering discomfort in the posterior thigh.

An MRI scan in Istanbul revealed a strain and bleeding in the semimembranosus muscle, and Besiktas’ medical team have already begun treatment. The injury rules Ndidi out of Besiktas’ upcoming match against Istanbul Başakşehir, but no official return timeframe has been provided.

Editorial

We understand that injuries are part and parcel of football especially in high-intensity international fixtures where every moment demands physical commitment. Ndidi’s setback is unfortunate, but it is also a reminder of the fine margins players walk every time they represent club and country.

We believe the swift response by Besiktas returning him for scans, confirming the diagnosis and beginning treatment reflects the professionalism that modern football demands. It’s not just about the initial blow, but how quickly a club manages the medical and recovery process that often determines the long-term outcome.

We also see the broader implications. Nigeria are entering a critical phase in their World Cup qualifying campaign, and Ndidi’s absence could influence tactical planning and midfield balance. That said, weekend club fixtures will also feel the impact. The question now is whether this is a short-term pause or the start of a longer recovery period.

We hold firm to the hope that Ndidi’s injury, while not trivial, will not derail his season. His track record suggests a player capable of bouncing back. If managed carefully, this could be a moment of reset rather than regression. And that optimism remains with us as we watch his rehabilitation unfold.

Did You Know?

1. The injury was confirmed as a strain with hemorrhaging in the posterior thigh (semimembranosus), which typically requires careful rest and rehabilitation.
2. Ndidi left the South Africa match around the 67th minute, indicating the injury may have developed over time rather than from a single incident.
3. He joined Besiktas from Leicester City in July 2025 and has so far made just two league appearances before this injury.
4. Midfielders relying on defensive duties are especially vulnerable to posterior thigh injuries, which can impact sprinting, recovery runs and tackling.
5. Ndidi has experienced hamstring-related issues in the past, making proper recovery protocols essential to avoid recurrence.