Belgium Fears the Worst for Malick Fofana’s Future

Malick Fofana delivered another impressive performance, showcasing his speed and skill last night at the Groupama Stadium. However, his evening took a turn in the 67th minute when he suffered a severe injury due to a reckless tackle from Ismaël Doukouré. The impact visibly twisted Fofana’s ankle. Moussa Niakhaté expressed concern to reporters shortly after the match, stating, “I know he’s not faking it. Seeing him on a stretcher means it’s serious. I have no further information.”

“He’s undergoing scans, but we don’t have much clarity yet. From the footage, it doesn’t look good. The ankle might be damaged, and possibly the fibula or tibia. We are awaiting more examinations.” Lyon hopes not to lose their promising player for weeks or even months, which would be a significant blow for the team, as Fofana is a vital part of the squad. His injury also raises concerns in Belgium, where he is a national team member, having made his debut in 2024 with five caps and one goal.

A concerning injury for Lyon and Belgium

The situation is worrying for Belgian media, including 7 sur 7, which reported, “Serious concern: Malick Fofana leaves on a stretcher after suffering a brutal tackle… During the match against Strasbourg, he had to be carried off after a harsh tackle from Ismaël Doukouré in the 67th minute.” Sporza echoed this sentiment: “Malick Fofana is facing a serious injury, transported off the field in tears after a rough tackle.”

Further reports indicate, “Everyone held their breath for a moment. Fofana had initially scored for Lyon against Strasbourg, but it was ruled as an own goal. Unfortunately, the disaster followed. The talented winger suffered a severe ankle twist due to a tackle. The seriousness of the injury is still unclear. It’s hoped the situation is not dire for Fofana.” During the match, he was knocked down while sprinting, resulting in a twisted ankle after Doukouré’s foul.

Belgium holds its breath

Sporza continued, “It would be a big disappointment if Fofana, just 20, suffers another serious injury. He is finally thriving this season at Lyon, earning a starting position with the Belgium national team. In the match against Strasbourg, he demonstrated his talent with a well-timed shot that equalized the game, though it wasn’t credited to him.” Similarly, Nieuwsblad reported, “Another serious injury for a Belgian player? Malick Fofana was carried off after a heavy ankle tackle. Doukouré received a justified red card for this foul, and the footage shows how severely Fofana’s ankle was affected.”

Belgian sources also noted, “Doukouré, responsible for the own goal, received a red card for the dangerous tackle. Fofana was immediately substituted and carried off, covering his face with his hands. This represents yet another injury setback for Belgium after Kevin De Bruyne’s recent issues.” La Dernière Heure commented, “Bad luck continues for the national team: Malick Fofana is injured after a brutal tackle, following De Bruyne’s situation.”

A troubling injury for the national team

The DH reported, “The Belgian winger left the pitch during Lyon’s victory over Strasbourg. He fell victim to a nasty challenge from Doukouré, who was sent off after a VAR review by referee Éric Wattellier. Fofana and Doukouré continued the play despite the referee’s whistle for a foul on Corentin Tolisso. The young talent could miss upcoming matches against Paris FC and Brest, and the national squad is also in a crucial period.”

Rudi Garcia, the national coach, is once again faced with concerns. Following earlier injuries to Zeno Debast and Kevin De Bruyne, Fofana’s situation is another setback. Doukouré’s tackle led to a serious ankle twist, and Fofana had to be evacuated. He was taken to the hospital for further examination. The coach is awaiting updates, especially as he prepares the squad for the upcoming international matches against Kazakhstan on November 15 and an exhibition against the Faroe Islands on November 18, noting the uncertainty surrounding Fofana’s availability.