Amadou Onana has revealed his devastation after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury while representing Belgium at the World Cup.
The Aston Villa midfielder sustained the injury during Belgium’s 4-1 last-16 victory over the United States.
Onana landed awkwardly without contact and left the pitch during the first half. Medical tests later confirmed an ACL rupture, ending his World Cup campaign.
The 24-year-old has now posted an emotional message on Instagram about the moment he realised the severity of the injury.
“From the second I hit the floor my whole world collapsed,” Onana wrote. “I knew something really bad had happened.”
He admitted questioning why the injury had happened before turning to his faith and accepting the challenge ahead.
Onana begins long Aston Villa recovery
Onana thanked his Belgium team-mates, Villa staff and supporters for their messages. He also promised to return stronger from what will be a demanding rehabilitation period.
“I truly believe that everything happens for a reason,” he added. “I’ll be back InshaAllah.”
Belgium’s medical staff confirmed Onana had ruptured the ACL in his right knee. A precise return date has not yet been announced publicly.
His absence creates a serious problem for Unai Emery before the new season. Onana provides height, physical strength and defensive coverage in the centre of Villa’s midfield.
ReadAstonVilla has already examined how the injury could force Villa to reconsider their summer transfer plans.
Villa must now support Onana through his recovery while deciding whether another midfielder is required. His message suggests the long rehabilitation process has already begun with a determined outlook.
