Top 11 players ruled out with ACL injury during 2023-24 season

Published at :November 25, 2023 at 9:47 PM

Modified at :January 14, 2024 at 1:16 AM

From goalkeepers to strikers: Unmasking the devastating impact of ACL injury across football’s spectrum

In a stark turn of events, football enthusiasts worldwide are witnessing a heartbreaking surge in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL injury) injuries, sidelining some of the sport’s most illustrious names for the entirety of the 2023-24 season. This unexpected epidemic has cast a sombre shadow over clubs and national teams alike, challenging their depth and adaptability. As we navigate through the tales of these injured stars, we gain insights into the profound impact their absence will have on the beautiful game.

11. Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid, Belgium)

Real Madrid, the powerhouse in European football, are grappling with the sudden loss of their indomitable goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois. Known for his towering presence between the posts and remarkable shot-stopping abilities, Courtois had been a linchpin for Los Blancos since his arrival. The confirmation of an ACL injury sustained during training has dealt a devastating blow, ruling him out for the entirety of the 2023-24 season.

Courtois’s absence not only leaves a void in the goalkeeping department but also puts Real Madrid on a frantic quest for a replacement. The club’s decision to engage in talks with the experienced David De Gea, a free agent following his tenure at Manchester United, underscores the urgency to fill the void left by Courtois. The Belgian international’s journey to recovery is laden with uncertainty, and as Real Madrid navigates a season without their defensive stalwart, questions arise regarding the team’s ability to maintain its competitive edge.

10. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal, Netherlands)

Jurrien Timber Arsenal ACL injury — Jurrien Timber joined Arsenal in the summer

The Netherlands’s rising defensive talent, Timber, had been earmarked for a breakthrough season with Arsenal before an ill-fated Premier League debut altered his trajectory. During a triumphant 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest, Timber was forced off the field with what was later diagnosed as an ACL injury, shattering the high expectations surrounding his debut season in England.

Initial optimism regarding Timber’s return early in the new year was met with a harsh reality – the young Dutch defender will miss the entire 2023-24 season and, subsequently, Euro 2024. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, faces the unenviable task of reshuffling his defensive strategies without the promising Timber. The injury not only disrupts Timber’s journey but also poses a challenge to Nottingham Forests’ plan for defensive solidity in the competitive Premier League.

9. Wesley Fofana (Chelsea, France)

Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana, although absent from the pre-season tour, hints at progress in his recovery from an ACL injury. The French defender, unable to partake in Mauricio Pochettino’s plans for the start of the season, underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery. Fofana’s resilience shines through as he takes the first steps back into running, signalling a gradual return to the pitch.

While Chelsea remains without Fofana’s services for a considerable part of the season, the glimpses of progress provide a ray of hope. Pochettino, known for his tactical acumen, may find solace in the prospect of Fofana’s eventual return bolstering the defensive ranks.

8. Eder Militao (Real Madrid, Brazil)

Real Madrid’s defensive misfortunes compound as Eder Militao joins Thibaut Courtois on the injury list, succumbing to an ACL injury during a hard-fought victory over Athletic Bilbao. The Brazilian international, known for his tenacity and composure at the back, fell victim to a hyperextended knee, confirming the worst fears of manager Carlo Ancelotti. Militao’s tears as he left the pitch signalled the gravity of the situation, and subsequent medical examinations confirmed the need for surgical intervention.

Militao’s injury intensifies the defensive crisis at Real Madrid, prompting urgent questions about the team’s resilience in the face of adversity. As the second player within a week to suffer an ACL injury, Real Madrid’s depth is severely tested. The club’s announcement of Militao’s surgery underscores the challenging road ahead, and Ancelotti must now recalibrate his defensive strategy to navigate a season without two pivotal figures.

7. Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa, England)

Aston Villa‘s Tyrone Mings endured a heart-wrenching start to the season, suffering an ACL injury during the opener against Newcastle. The England international’s tear on the stretcher hinted at the gravity of the situation, raising concern not only for Villa’s defensive stability but also for Mings’s aspirations with the national team.

The 30-year-old defender’s injury, requiring a lengthy rehabilitation process, puts a halt to Mings’s consistent presence in Unai Emery’s starting XI. The former Villa captain, who reestablished himself as a first-choice centre-back, now faces the challenge of overcoming a significant setback. As Villa adjust to Mings’s absence, Emery must explore alternative defensive combinations, mindful of the leadership and experience that Mings brought to the backline.

6. Gavi (Barcelona, Spain)

Barcelona‘s 19-year-old sensation, Gavi, finds his promising career trajectory abruptly derailed by an ACL injury suffered during a Euro 2024 qualifier against Georgia. The midfielder’s significant contribution to Barcelona’s midfield dynamics comes to a halt as he faces a complete tear in the ACL, coupled with damage to the lateral meniscus.

Gavi’s injury has sparked frustration within Barcelona, questioning the necessity of his participation in a seemingly secured qualifying match against Georgia. The club’s ire stems from the fact that Spain had already secured qualification for the next round, making Gavi’s involvement appear unnecessary. As Gavi braces for surgery and a prolonged recovery period, Barcelona must readjust its midfield strategies, losing a player who embodied the future of the club’s midfield.

5. Emi Buendia (Aston Villa, Argentina)

Aston Villa‘s Emi Buendia, a creative force in the team, faces an uncertain period after suffering a serious knee ligament injury during training. The 26-year-old Argentine, who featured prominently in every Premier League game for Villa last season, is now under review and awaits further consultation with a knee specialist.

Buendia’s injury deals a significant blow to Villa’s attacking prowess, robbing them of a player known for his vision, creativity, and goal-scoring ability. As Villa assesses the extent of Buendia’s injury and plans for his potential absence, manager Unai Emery must explore alternative attacking options to maintain the team’s competitive edge in the Premier League.

4. Ivan Perisic (Tottenham Hotspur, Coratia)

Tottenham Hotspur‘s Ivan Perisic, a seasoned wingback and former Inter Milan star, faces a complex ACL injury in his right knee. The Croatian international, whose arrival at Spurs contributed to the team’s successful start to the 2023/24 campaign, now requires surgery, effectively ruling him out for a substantial part of the season.

Perisic’s injury not only disrupts Spurs’ early-season momentum but also poses a challenge to Nuno Espirito Santo’s tactical plans. As the team adjusts to the absence of a player known for his versatility and experience, Perisic’s road to recovery becomes a focal point, with the hope that he can rejoin the squad for the latter stages of the season.

3. Yeremy Pino (Villarreal, Spain)

Villarreal‘s Yeremy Pino, a 21-year-old attacking sensation, suffers a devastating ACL rupture, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. Pino’s injury deals a severe blow to Villarreal and manager Marcelino Garcia Toral, robbing them of one of the club’s most exciting and promising talents.

The absence of Pino not only impacts Villarreal’s attacking strategies but also forces Marcelino to reassess his lineup and tactics. Pino’s electric style of play and goal-scoring prowess will be sorely missed as Villarreal contend with the challenges of a competitive La Liga season and potential European commitments. The club’s hopes for success hinge, in part, on how effectively they can cope with the loss of a player who had become a symbol of Villarreal’s youthful exuberance.

2. Breel Embolo (Monaco, Switzerland)

Monaco‘s Swiss international striker, Breel Embolo, faces a daunting eight months on the sidelines after undergoing surgery for ruptured knee ligaments. The 26-year-old, who showcased his goal-scoring prowess with 14 goals in all competitions last season, leaves a considerable void in Monaco’s attacking arsenal.

Embolo’s injury forces Monaco to explore striking alternatives, potentially impacting their aspiration in domestic and European competitions. The club face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement to fill the goal-scoring vacuum left by Embolo’s absence. Monaco’s strategic decisions in the transfer market will play a crucial role in determining their attacking dynamics for the remainder of the season.

1. Neymar (Al Hilal, Brazil)

Brazil’s footballing icon Neymar, now plying his trade for Al Hilal, faces yet another chapter in his injury-riddled career. A ruptured ACL and meniscus in his left knee during a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay thrust the 31-year-old into the familiar territory of rehabilitation. Neymar’s premature exit from the field and subsequent confirmation of surgery raise concerns not only for Al Hilal but also for the Brazilian national team.

This injury marks another unfortunate episode in Neymar’s history of World Cup-related setbacks, with memories of his tournament-ending injury in 2014 still lingering. As Neymar embarks on the road to recovery, Al Hilal and Brazil must recalibrate their strategies, mindful of the star’s storied journey with injuries. Neymar’s absence leaves a void not just in the attacking prowess of Al Hilal but also in the collective imagination of football fans globally.

The unfolding saga of ACL injuries among football’s elite serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of careers and the unpredictable nature of the sport. As clubs and national teams grapple with the absence of key players, the resilience of both individuals and organizations will be put to the test. The coming months will reveal not only the impact of these injuries on team dynamics but also the collective determination to overcome adversity and write new chapters in the storied history of football.

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