Abergel Injured: Nice's Midfielder Out for Months

Nice's new midfielder Laurent Abergel got hurt just days after joining the squad. He moved to the French club in July after playing for Lorient. During a pre-season game vs Cagliari, he came off after only 17 minutes. Tests confirmed he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in the right knee. The injury is serious and will keep him out for many months. Nice said they will support him through the long recovery ahead.

INEOS has been active across European football this summer. At Manchester United, the group helped bring in Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Villa. Coach Michael Carrick now has fresh legs in the middle of the park. The squad will need depth for a campaign that includes Champions League games. United opens its Premier League season away at Hull City next weekend, so every player counts early on.

The injury to Abergel arrives during a tricky time for INEOS's French operation. Ratcliffe and the group bought Nice back in 2019, years before their United investment. Recent reports suggest Ratcliffe is exploring a potential sale of the French club. He has already lowered his asking price as he weighs options. Ownership uncertainty now mixes with early-season setbacks on the pitch.

Fans will watch how the team adapts without Abergel's energy in midfield. The situation shows how quickly plans can change in football. INEOS's dual focus on Nice and United means injuries at one club can ripple across both. For now, the priority is Abergel's health and getting the squad ready for a demanding season ahead.