Nidal Celik

Celik is available to return to the squad for Saturday's Ligue 1 clash against Strasbourg, according to coach Dino Toppmoller, per Lensois. "Celik is now fit to return to the squad."

Analysis: Celik has continued to progress after missing the season opener against Auxerre and is now cleared to rejoin the matchday squad. The defender had already returned to training following the undisclosed issue that kept him out of the World Cup with Bosnia, but was not considered ready for selection last weekend. His return gives manager Dino Toppmoller another defensive option for Saturday's trip to Strasbourg, though Celik may initially have to settle for a role off the bench.

Aug 20, 2026

Not yet ready for matchday squad

Celik (undisclosed) continues to train but is not yet an option to be included in the squad for Saturday's season opener against Auxerre, according to coach Dino Toppmoller, per Madeinlensois. "Celik is training, it's progressing well, but he's not yet an option to be in the group."

Analysis: Celik had taken part in group training ahead of the Trophee des Champions against PSG after working individually following an undisclosed injury that ruled him out of the World Cup with Bosnia, and this latest update shows continued progress even if a return to matchday squads still isn't imminent. His steady improvement in training keeps him on track to eventually reenter contention in the coming weeks.