Roma star Evan Ndicka collapses on pitch as Serie A clash with Udinese abandoned amid terrifying scenes
ROMA defender Evan Ndicka has been stretchered off after collapsing off the ball during their clash with Udinese.
The 24-year-old was taken off by medical staff in the 74th minute of the Serie A clash, before the match was abandoned.
He went to ground while Roma had possession of the ball and could be seen holding his chest.
Reports have claimed he gave a thumbs up as he made his way off the pitch.
The game was 1-1 when it was suspended.
The Roma players huddled together, before both teams were talked through the situation by the referee.
After some discussion, the official blew his whistle and instructed the players to leave the field.
Fans from both clubs applauded the decision.
And those on social media were quick to share messages of support for the Ivory Coast international.
One said: “Thoughts and prayers with Evan Ndicka .”
Who is Evan Ndicka?
Evan Ndicka has been with Roma since 2023.
The 24-year-old joined the Italian outfit from Eintracht Frankfurt on a five-year deal.
The big centre-back started his career at Auxerre in France.
As he rose through the youth ranks, he represented France at every level up to the Under-21s.
But he has since represented Ivory Coast at international level, making 14 appearances for the African giants.
He’d made 27 appearances in all competitions prior to the medical scare vs Udinese.
Another added: “Thoughts are with Ndicka and his friends and family as he’s stretchered off due to collapsing on the pitch. Get well soon .”
A third replied: “Forza Evan Ndicka! We are all with you brother .”
While a fourth responded: “Prayers up for Ndicka .”
Roberto Pereyra had given Udinese a 23rd-minute lead on Sunday evening.
But ex-Chelsea man Romelu Lukaku levelled midway through the second period, shortly before Ndicka went down.
Roma came into the game sitting in fifth place, four points adrift of Bologna in fourth.
Ndicka joined Roma from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer having played 183 games for the German side, winning the Europa League in 2022.
He has earned 14 caps for Ivory Coast since making his debut in 2023.
And he played every minute of his country’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph earlier this year.