Nine years after Abdelhak Nouri suffered a cardiac arrest during a football match, his brother Abderrahim has provided an encouraging update on the former Ajax midfielder's condition. Abderrahim shared the update on Dutch journalist Matthijs van Nieuwkerk's podcast Schuilen in Schoonheid. According to Abderrahim, Nouri is now stable and in a better condition than during the difficult period immediately following the incident.
Abdelhak Nouri suffered the cardiac arrest in July 2017 during a pre-season friendly between Ajax and Werder Bremen in Austria; he was 20 at the time. The incident left him with severe and permanent brain damage after his brain was deprived of oxygen. This led to a long and challenging recovery period for Nouri and his family.
Abderrahim recalled a particularly emotional moment from his brother's recovery, when Nouri smiled and laughed spontaneously for the first time after the incident. This moment was a significant milestone for the family, as it confirmed that Nouri knew who they were and understood them. Abderrahim emphasized that his brother's smile now holds a special meaning for their family.
Nouri's condition has remained a deeply followed story in Dutch football, particularly among Ajax supporters. The midfielder rose through Ajax's academy and was seen as one of the club's promising young talents before the incident brought his playing career to an abrupt end. Ajax later retired Nouri's No. 34 shirt in his honor, permanently associating the number with the midfielder and his legacy at the club.
Abderrahim's update offers a glimpse into the family's ongoing journey and the progress they have witnessed since those early, uncertain years. According to Abderrahim, Nouri is doing well and stable, especially when compared to the difficult period immediately after the incident. This update provides hope and reassurance to fans who have been following Nouri's story.
Nouri remained in a coma for nearly three years before eventually returning home to continue his recovery with the support of his family. The family's dedication and care have played a crucial role in Nouri's progress. Abderrahim's update highlights the importance of family support during challenging times.
The incident and its aftermath have had a lasting impact on Nouri's life and the lives of those around him. Nine years after the incident, Abderrahim's update serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Key points
- Abdelhak Nouri's condition has improved significantly since the incident in 2017.
- Nouri's brother, Abderrahim, shared the update on a Dutch podcast.
- Ajax retired Nouri's No. 34 shirt in his honor after the incident.