Injury Setback for Bernie Ibini Just Days into Club Brugge Career
Australian international Bernie Ibini has suffered a serious injury blow just as his European adventure was beginning, casting doubt over his participation in the start of the Belgian Pro League season with Club Brugge.
The 22-year-old forward, who recently joined the Belgian giants from Chinese side Shanghai SIPG, sustained a suspected fractured tibia during training on Monday in Garderen, the Netherlands. The injury occurred late in the session during what was described as an innocuous challenge.
The club is awaiting final confirmation of the diagnosis, expected on Tuesday, but early indications suggest the Australian could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Club Brugge head coach Michel Preud’homme expressed sympathy for the player, saying, “It’s very annoying for the boy. Football is and remains a contact sport, and unfortunately, such injuries can happen.”
Ibini, visibly disappointed, addressed the setback with a mixture of sadness and determination. “It goes without saying that I’m not feeling well,” he said. “I had enthusiastically started my new adventure in Europe. The integration was going remarkably well. It was too good to be true. But I have a lot of courage to come back quickly.”
Ibini had only recently signed a three-year deal with Club Brugge in early June, bringing with him both domestic and international experience. Born in Nigeria but raised in Australia, he made a name for himself with the Central Coast Mariners before moving to China in 2013. His versatility and pace had made him a promising addition to Brugge’s attacking options.
Now, the focus will shift to his recovery, with both club and player hopeful he can return to full fitness as soon as possible. His absence, however, will be felt as Club Brugge prepares for a demanding season domestically and in Europe.
