Mohamed Bachir Belloumi eyes early return after cruciate ligament injury

Algerian international Mohamed Bachir Belloumi is showing promising signs of recovery and may return to action before the end of the season, offering hope to both Hull City and his supporters.

The 22-year-old, currently undergoing functional rehabilitation at Aspetar Specialist Hospital in Doha, sustained a ruptured cruciate ligament in his left knee during Hull City’s Championship match against Oxford United on November 5, 2024.

The injury came as a significant blow, especially after Belloumi’s recent rise in form and his first call-up to the Algerian national team under Vladimir Petković.

Following successful surgery at Aspetar later that month, Belloumi has been committed to an intensive rehabilitation programme.

His decision to recover at the world-renowned facility, on the recommendation of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), was fully supported by Hull City due to Aspetar’s stellar reputation and its strong links with the FAF.

Determined to make a comeback
Aspetar recently shared updates on Belloumi’s progress, showing the winger working diligently under the guidance of a specialist physical trainer.

In a statement, Belloumi expressed his resolve to return to peak condition:

“Aspetar is a unique place for athletes. Everything I need to recover and give the best of myself is here. I feel in good hands with a team of professionals. My goal is to return as soon as possible.”

While Hull City initially announced that Belloumi would be sidelined for the remainder of the season, his rapid recovery suggests he could make an earlier-than-expected comeback.

Following Bennacer’s path
Belloumi’s recovery journey mirrors that of fellow Algerian star Ismaël Bennacer, who defied expectations by returning to action quickly after a similar injury.

Belloumi is not only targeting a return before the season’s conclusion but also aiming to be in optimal shape for Hull City’s summer preparations.

The talented left winger, signed from Portuguese side Farense for €5.5 million in the summer of 2024, wasted no time making an impact in the Championship.

Before his injury, he registered two goals and two assists in just 10 appearances, showcasing the potential that had excited both Algerian supporters and Hull City fans.

With his rehabilitation progressing well, hopes are high that Belloumi will pick up where he left off and continue his ascent as one of Algerian football’s brightest young talents.

A successful return could not only bolster Hull City’s campaign but also solidify Belloumi’s place on the international stage.