Nabil Bentaleb Undergoes Surgery, Misses Lille’s Clash Against Nice

Lille OSC confirmed on Friday, April 17, 2026, that midfielder Nabil Bentaleb underwent a minor surgical procedure to treat an infection, rendering him unavailable for the Ligue 1 fixture against OGC Nice scheduled for Saturday evening.

The Algerian international, who plays as a defensive midfielder for Lille, was forced to withdraw from the squad ahead of the high-stakes match at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. According to the club’s official statement, Bentaleb had the procedure performed that morning in Lille.

Lille’s head coach Bruno Genesio acknowledged the setback, stating that the player was at what he believed to be his best form prior to the intervention. The coach emphasized the club’s commitment to supporting Bentaleb during his recovery.

Bentaleb, born on November 24, 1994, in Lille, France, has represented Algeria at the international level since his debut in March 2014. He has earned 58 caps for the Algerian national team, scoring six goals, and has participated in major tournaments including the 2014 FIFA World Cup and multiple Africa Cup of Nations editions.

At the club level, Bentaleb returned to Lille in 2023 after a stint with Angers SCO, where he made 48 appearances and scored five goals during the 2022-2023 season. Since rejoining Lille, he has made 58 appearances and scored two goals for the Ligue 1 side as of March 22, 2026.

The defensive midfielder began his youth career with Lille’s academy before being released at age 15. He then played for Belgian side Mouscron and had a trial with Birmingham City before joining Tottenham Hotspur’s academy in January 2012. His senior career includes spells at Tottenham Hotspur, Schalke 04 (including a loan spell), Newcastle United (on loan), and Angers before his return to Lille.

Lille will look to maintain their push for a European qualification spot without Bentaleb in the lineup for the match against Nice. The fixture is part of Lille’s ongoing campaign to secure a top-four finish in Ligue 1 for the 2025-2026 season.

The club has not provided a specific timeline for Bentaleb’s return, describing the procedure as minor and expressing confidence in his recovery with the support of his family and medical staff.

Lille’s next fixture after the Nice match is scheduled for April 25, 2026, against Rennes in Ligue 1 action.

Fans and teammates alike have expressed their support for Bentaleb during this period, with the player known for his professionalism and dedication both on and off the pitch.

As Lille continues its pursuit of European football, the absence of Bentaleb presents a challenge for the midfield, though the squad remains focused on maintaining their competitive edge in the league.

The Algerian international’s commitment to his national team remains strong, with Algeria preparing for upcoming international fixtures later in the year.

Lille OSC will provide further updates on Bentaleb’s condition as they become available through official club channels.