Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi suffers thigh strain

Wilfred Ndidi has been ruled out with a thigh injury sustained during Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier against South Africa, delivering an untimely blow to Beşiktaş.

The midfielder, who joined the Istanbul club from Leicester City this summer, was forced off in the 70th minute of Tuesday’s match in Uyo.

Despite featuring in both international fixtures — against Rwanda and South Africa — Ndidi was unable to complete the second game after pulling up in visible discomfort.

On his return to Turkey, the 27-year-old underwent an MRI scan at Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital in Istanbul.

Beşiktaş confirmed in a statement that the tests revealed a strained posterior semimembranous muscle of the thigh with bleeding. The club added that its medical team has already begun a treatment programme to support his recovery.

The news comes as a significant setback for the Black Eagles, who had been relying on Ndidi’s presence to anchor their midfield.

Since his arrival, the Nigerian international has featured in four matches and quickly established himself as a central figure in Vincent Kompany’s side.

His defensive discipline, ball-winning ability and Premier League experience were seen as crucial assets in Beşiktaş’s push for domestic and European success.

Although the club has not disclosed the expected duration of his absence, thigh strains of this nature often require several weeks of rest and rehabilitation.

The uncertainty surrounding his return adds further concern for Beşiktaş, who face a demanding fixture list in both the league and continental competitions.

Ndidi’s injury is also a personal frustration for the player, who had been hoping to build on a strong start with his new club following seven seasons at Leicester City.

For Nigeria, his departure from the South Africa qualifier marked a disruption in their midfield balance, underlining his importance at both club and international level.

Beşiktaş will now look to its squad depth to cover Ndidi’s absence, but his unavailability strips the team of a natural midfield shield whose qualities have already made a marked difference since his arrival.

With the Turkish giants eager to compete on multiple fronts this season, the timing of the setback is particularly damaging.

The club has assured supporters it will provide further updates on Ndidi’s recovery in due course.

Until then, Beşiktaş face the challenge of adjusting their midfield structure without one of their most dependable new signings.