Ghana’s build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been dealt a heavy setback after AS Monaco confirmed that Mohammed Salisu will be sidelined for the remainder of the season with a serious knee injury.
The Ligue 1 club disclosed that the Ghanaian centre-back was injured late in their 3-1 defeat to Olympique Lyonnais, with medical examinations later revealing a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The diagnosis brings an abrupt end to Salisu’s campaign and signals a long road to recovery.
Monaco have assured the defender of their full support as he begins rehabilitation, a process expected to keep him out of competitive action for several months. The timing of the injury has worsened an already challenging period for the Principality side, who were short of defensive options before the setback.
Salisu had established himself as a key presence in the back line, taking on greater responsibility in the absence of Christian Mawissa and Eric Dier. His injury compounded a frustrating night for Monaco, who not only lost the match but also ground in the race for European qualification.
The defender’s misfortune follows a worrying trend at the club, as he became the second Monaco player in successive matches to suffer an ACL injury. Japan international Takumi Minamino sustained a similar setback against AJ Auxerre shortly before the winter break.
For Ghana, the development is a cause for concern. With the Black Stars preparing for a challenging World Cup group featuring England, Croatia and Panama, Salisu’s extended absence raises doubts about his readiness for the tournament and adds uncertainty to Otto Addo’s defensive plans.
