After completing his medical, Elye Wahi is officially back at OGC Nice, where he joins on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt (with an option to buy).

The Nice supporters wanted him back so badly over the summer that they gave him a warm welcome at the airport, even before the contract had been signed. It was a clear demonstration of their affection and appreciation for the 23-year-old striker, who played a key role in securing the club’s survival last season, as well as in the run in the Coupe de France.

Outstanding on the pitch (9 goals and 2 assists in 19 appearances) and endearing off it, to the point of being reduced to tears in front of the broadcaster’s cameras once survival had been confirmed, Elye Wahi did everything he could this summer to return to Nice. In turn, the club did everything it could to bring him back, with significant backing from its owner.

“First of all, I would like to thank the INEOS group, its owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, as well as Jean-Claude Blanc, CEO of INEOS Sport, for their trust,” explains president Maurice Cohen. “We have a clear direction of travel and are working closely together on the path we want to take the Club in. The quality of these discussions and their commitment to supporting us are invaluable. Bringing Elye back to OGC Nice initially seemed impossible. Their involvement, as well as that of Roger Ricort in putting this deal together, made the operation possible. We are delighted to see Elye return to Nice and OGC Nice.”

“The feeling is mutual,” says the striker. “We all fought together to keep the club in Ligue 1. We went through difficult times and we achieved it. Now we have to work hard to do better and help the club get back on its feet. Le Gym gave me a lot, allowed me to experience some great emotions and gave me the chance to get going again. I want to repay that. I always knew, somewhere in the back of my mind, that there was a possibility of coming back. I’m extremely happy that it has happened. Thank you to the club’s directors, the coach, and the supporters for the welcome they gave me. Now I can’t wait to see my teammates again and get back to competitive football.”

Having become an Ivory Coast international during his time as a Nice player, Wahi, who took part in the World Cup this summer, still has “a few levels to climb physically,” explains sporting director Roger Ricort.

“But we know everything that a striker of his talent can bring us. In addition to his finishing ability, he is a real team player who runs a lot, makes runs in behind, never hides, has experience and a strong character. And Elye is an emotional person. Here, he knows he is loved. Everyone will support him and work with him to allow him to express himself as best as he can.”