Wilfred Ndidi suffers hamstring injury in Istanbul derby loss, already suspended for next match

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi sustained a hamstring injury during Beşiktaş's 1-0 loss to Fenerbahçe in the Istanbul derby on Sunday. The Nigerian midfielder was forced off in the 85th minute after experiencing discomfort; an MRI at Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital confirmed a strain with internal bleeding in his biceps femoris muscle. His treatment has begun with the club not yet disclosing a recovery timeline.

Compounding the setback, Ndidi picked up his fourth yellow card of the season in the 52nd minute, automatically ruling him out of Beşiktaş's next fixture against Antalyaspor regardless of his injury status. His previous bookings came against Eyüpspor, Kocaelispor, and Kasımpaşa.

Since joining from Leicester City last summer, Ndidi has become central to Beşiktaş's midfield, making 26 appearances across competitions and scoring twice. His defensive discipline and positioning are considered vital to the team's structure. At a crucial stage of the season, his manager now faces the challenge of adapting without a key pillar.

The injury occurs during a match already marked by controversy—Fenerbahçe won with a penalty deep into stoppage time. For Nigerian fans tracking his progress abroad, the dual setback of injury and suspension raises questions about his durability and Beşiktaş's ability to manage his workload amid a congested fixture list.

Will this injury disrupt Beşiktaş's momentum, and what does it mean for Ndidi's long-term value to both club and country?

SOURCE: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/870078-derby-blow-besiktas-confirm-ndidis-hamstring-injury.html