Ghana: Abu Francis undergoes successful surgery after serious injury

Ghanaian international Abu Francis has successfully undergone surgery following a severe injury sustained during the Black Stars’ friendly against Japan, the Ghana Football Association has confirmed.

The 24-year-old midfielder now faces an extensive rehabilitation period ahead of his return to full fitness.

The injury occurred in the second half of the match on Friday, November 14, 2025, part of the FIFA international break, when Francis suffered a double fracture to his tibia and fibula.

The incident forced him off the field on a stretcher, immediately raising concerns among teammates and fans. Ghana went on to lose the match 2-0, with the focus quickly shifting to the welfare of their key midfielder.

Francis was transported to Japan for urgent surgical intervention. Medical teams from Toulouse FC, his club, collaborated closely with the Japanese surgeons to ensure the procedure’s success.

The Ghana Football Association confirmed that the operation was completed without complications and that Francis has now entered the initial phase of rehabilitation.

The acute phase of his rehabilitation has begun, the Federation stated, highlighting the coordinated effort between the Black Stars’ medical staff, Toulouse FC doctors, and the Japanese surgical team.

The collaborative approach aims to provide the best possible environment for a full recovery.

The Federation also expressed gratitude to all involved in supporting Francis during this challenging period.

We are particularly grateful to the Black Stars’ management and coaching staff for their support over the past few days and we continue to rely on them during the player’s rehabilitation to help him regain his full fitness, the statement added.

For Francis, the injury represents a major setback.

The midfielder will miss the upcoming World Cup, depriving both himself and the national team of his presence on football’s biggest stage.

Despite the disappointment, officials emphasize the importance of prioritizing long-term recovery over rushing his return.

Toulouse FC’s medical team will continue to monitor his progress alongside Ghana’s staff, ensuring that all necessary measures are taken to restore his strength and mobility.

Rehabilitation is expected to be intensive and gradual, involving physiotherapy, conditioning, and close medical supervision to prevent complications or re-injury.

While the focus now shifts to recovery, the Black Stars remain supportive of Francis and optimistic about his eventual return to action.

His experience and quality in midfield will be invaluable once he resumes full training, and the Federation has committed to providing all resources necessary for his successful comeback.