Ivory Coast forward Evann Guessand sidelined for weeks with knee injury

Ivory Coast international Evann Guessand is set to spend time on the sidelines after picking up a knee injury.

The enterprising attacker was not in action when Crystal Palace succumbed to a 2-1 defeat in the return clash of the Europa Conference League.

Despite the defeat, the Premier League outfit has advanced to the semifinals of the Conference League.

Before the match, Palace manager Oliver Glasner disclosed the forward has suffered a knee injury and is expected to be out for weeks.

“Evann Guessand will be out for a few weeks due to a knee injury. Let’s hope he can make a comeback by the end of the season. It’s always a shame to be without a player, and Evann had been playing really well” Glasner said.

The 23-year-old has been a key figure in Palace’s attacking setup, delivering consistent performances and proving to be a vital outlet in high-pressure matches. His injury not only disrupts Glasner’s tactical plans but also forces the team into a late reshuffle at a decisive moment in their European journey.

Glasner expressed disappointment over the development, acknowledging the importance of the forward to his squad. He noted that Guessand had been playing at a high level and losing him at this stage of the season is far from ideal. However, the manager remains hopeful that the player could return before the campaign concludes.

Beyond club concerns, the situation is also being closely monitored in Ivory Coast. With the next FIFA World Cup fast approaching in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the injury raises concerns for the national team setup. Guessand is considered one of the promising attacking options for the Elephants, and any prolonged absence could impact their preparations.

While the full extent of the knee injury has yet to be disclosed, the timeline of “a few weeks” offers some optimism that the forward could regain fitness in time for both club and country commitments. For now, Crystal Palace must navigate a critical European fixture without one of their standout performers, hoping to keep their continental ambitions alive despite the setback.