Benin: Gernot Rohr welcomes Prince Ricardo Dossou back to the Cheetahs

Benin coach Gernot Rohr has announced the return of Prince Ricardo Dossou to the national team’s extended squad for the upcoming FIFA matchdays, marking a significant step in the striker’s remarkable recovery journey.

The announcement, made on Thursday, November 6, 2025, highlights Rohr’s commitment to supporting young talent overcoming major obstacles.

During a press conference, as reported by Joueurs Béninois, Rohr shared the extraordinary challenges Dossou faced.

The ASVO striker underwent cruciate ligament reconstruction in both knees, a setback that would sideline even the most resilient athletes for extended periods.

“Prince is a player who has had surgery on both knees, suffering from torn cruciate ligaments in both. He made an enormous effort to come back. You can’t imagine what it’s like to have such an injury, let alone to both knees. It’s a colossal challenge,” Rohr explained, underlining the exceptional nature of Dossou’s recovery.

The decision to recall Dossou goes beyond tactical considerations.

Rohr emphasized that the inclusion of the 20-year-old striker is a demonstration of support and encouragement, ensuring that a player who showed immense promise at just 18 years old is not left behind due to injury.

“Abandoning such a promising talent was out of the question,” the coach stated.

Currently, Dossou is regaining match fitness with ASVO in the local league, and Rohr acknowledges that the player is still behind schedule in terms of full physical readiness.

Nevertheless, the call-up provides a valuable opportunity for Dossou to reintegrate into the national setup, regain confidence, and continue his development at the international level.

Rohr’s decision has been welcomed by fans and pundits alike, highlighting a broader philosophy of nurturing young talent while balancing competitive ambitions.

By backing Dossou during this delicate phase, the Cheetahs’ management is sending a clear message that resilience and potential are valued as much as current form.

As the national team prepares for the upcoming fixtures, attention will now turn to how Dossou adapts to the demands of international football after such a difficult recovery period.

Rohr’s support could prove pivotal in transforming the young striker’s return from a remarkable comeback story into a meaningful contribution on the pitch for Benin.