Charles Vanhoutte

Analysis: Vanhoutte had been assessed in the final training session before coach Claude Puel made his call, and his inclusion in the squad confirms he has come through cleanly enough to be available for the cup tie. The midfielder is an important presence in Nice's engine room and his return gives manager Puel more options in the middle of the park for one of the most significant remaining fixtures on their calendar.

Apr 21, 2026

Could be in squad for cup game

Vanhoutte (undisclosed) is being assessed to determine if he'll be eligible for Wednesday's Coupe de France match against Strasbourg, with coach Claude Puel saying "If he validates today (during the final training), Charles will be in the group", the club announced Tuesday.

Analysis: Vanhoutte is looking to increase his workload, but it remains to be seen whether he'll be ready in time for the midweek clash after missing the previous league game due to injury. While he's a major presence in midfield when healthy, his spot in the starting lineup could be covered by Hicham Boudaoui, with Tanguy Ndombele and Salis Abdul Samed offering alternatives.

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