Elye Wahi returns to Nice on season‑long loan with purchase option

OGC Nice have secured the services of Ivory Coast forward Elye Wahi on a season‑long loan from Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, a deal that includes an option to buy the 23‑year‑old permanently at the end of the campaign. The agreement was finalised on Sunday after the player was greeted by a throng of supporters at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport.

The loan replaces the short‑term spell Wahi enjoyed at Nice last winter, extending his stay to a full campaign and giving the club the right to trigger a permanent transfer should his performances merit it. Frankfurt will retain a sell‑on clause, while Nice will cover the player's wages for the duration of the loan.

Wahi, who struggled for regular minutes in Germany, first joined Nice on loan in January 2023 and made an immediate impact, scoring crucial goals that helped the club avoid relegation. After a difficult season with Frankfurt, the forward expressed confidence that a return to the French Riviera would reignite his career.

"It was love at first sight," Wahi told reporters, describing his bond with the club. "When I landed, I heard noises, went to the toilet, and then saw familiar faces – the welcome was exceptional. I’m very happy and thank the fans for that warm reception."

The striker acknowledged the heightened expectations that come with his new status, saying, "I know I’ll be expected to perform, but that’s the kind of responsibility I want to have. I’ll give everything for the club and the supporters."

Looking ahead, Wahi outlined realistic goals for Nice, citing a top‑10 finish in Ligue 1 as a benchmark after last season’s relegation battle. He highlighted the positive momentum within the squad, noting that even in a recent defeat the team displayed solid collective build‑up play.

While the purchase option remains on the table, Wahi cautioned that the focus is on the upcoming season. "There are nine months ahead. The season hasn’t even started for me yet – we’ll see when the time comes," he said.

Nice’s sporting director confirmed that Wahi’s arrival adds depth to the attacking line and aligns with the club’s ambition to climb the table. The loan is set to commence with the start of the Ligue 1 season in August, and all eyes will be on the forward to see if he can replicate his earlier impact.