AFCON 2023: Five reasons Super Eagles will miss Ndidi

This is a significant blow to the team. Ndidi's role had evolved under Leicester's coach Enzo Maresca, transforming him from a defensive midfielder to a more dynamic box-to-box player.

His contributions in defence and attack have been vital for his club and country.

Ndidi's injury poses a considerable challenge for Super Eagles' coach Jose Peseiro, especially given that Ndidi was one of only five midfielders chosen for the tournament.

His experience and versatility in the midfield are challenging to replace, and this could necessitate a strategic shift for the Super Eagles in the game.

With Ndidi ruled out, Alhassan Yusuf from Royal Antwerp has been called up as a replacement. Although he has yet to play for the Super Eagles previously, this development presents a unique opportunity for Yusuf to showcase his abilities on the international stage.

Further complicating the situation for the Super Eagles is the condition of Kelechi Iheanacho, Ndidi's teammate, who is also struggling with a muscular problem. His potential unavailability could impact the team's attacking options in the tournament.

The Super Eagles are currently preparing for the tournament in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Placed in Group A, they face a challenging group stage against hosts Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea.

How the team adapts to the absence of key players like Ndidi and possibly Iheanacho will be crucial to their performance in AFCON 2023.