Axel Witsel has established himself as the undisputed engine of OGC Nice’s midfield since his summer arrival, even assuming the captain’s armband. However, manager Olivier Pantaloni is poised to make a significant tactical adjustment for this afternoon’s Ligue 1 clash against SCO Angers. The Belgian international may be relegated to the bench, paving the way for a dynamic midfield duo of Hicham Boudaoui and Djibril Coulibaly. This strategic shift aims to inject greater energy and pressing intensity into the center of the park, potentially altering the rhythm of Nice’s possession-based play.
Pantaloni eyes midfield shift as Boudaoui and Coulibaly target Angers.
With Witsel potentially resting, the leadership mantle is expected to pass to Youssouf Ndayishimiye, who will anchor the defense at the heart of the back three. Pantaloni faces no fresh injury concerns for this fixture, though the squad remains depleted by long-term absences. Moise Bombito, Antoine Mendy, and Laurent Abergel continue to recover from significant injuries, while Ali Abdi remains unfit to return to the fold. The absence of these key contributors underscores the depth required in Nice’s current rotation as they navigate a demanding mid-season schedule.
Up front, in-form striker Elye Wahi will lead the line, bringing his recent goal-scoring form to bear against a struggling Angers side. On the right flank, Pantaloni appears inclined to select Sofiane Diop over Gauthier Hein, prioritizing Diop’s directness and defensive work rate. The projected starting lineup features Yehvann Diouf in goal, with a back three of Xavier Mandza, Youssouf Ndayishimiye, and Mohamed Abdelmonem. Niels Nkounkou and Jonathan Clauss will provide width on the flanks, supporting the central midfield pair and Mohamed Amoura in the attacking third.
Source: Yahoo Sports
