Canadian-Liberian defender Alphonso Davies make strides in his recovery

Canadian left-back of Liberian descent Alphonso Davies is making remarkable strides in his recovery from a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury.

Davies has been out of action for Bayern Munich for several months following an injury setback back in March 2025. The defender suffered a serious injury while in action for the Canadian national team during the March international break and has since not recovered.

He ultimately missed the remainder of the 2024/25 season as Bayern triumphed to secure the Bundesliga title.

Having returned to training, the defender is expected to make a shock return to the pitch as early as November 13 in Toronto against Ecuador.

Head coach Jesse Marsch fueled optimism by saying, “I wouldn’t bet against Alphonso. He’s meeting all the measurements and benchmarks that he needs to.”

Early fears suggested his season was over, but training footage from Säbener Straße has shown Davies running, lifting, and steadily increasing his workload.

Marsch noted that modern recovery science has altered the outlook for ACL injuries. While the typical recovery spans six to eight months, he believes Davies will be fit in time. “I think we’ll see a guy ready to come back at the highest level, for leadership and on-field performance,” the coach said.

The road has not been smooth. After the injury, Davies’ agent accused Canada Soccer of rushing him back, criticism echoed by Bayern executives who even threatened legal action. Canada Soccer defended its medical staff, while Davies stayed positive and focused on rehab.

Bayern adapted without him and Jamal Musiala, with Vincent Kompany using Josip Stanišić out of position at left-back. Strong performances from Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and new signing Luis Díaz kept the team’s ambitions intact despite early setbacks.

Davies, meanwhile, has remained close to the national team, even visiting during the Gold Cup to support his teammates. A homecoming return in Toronto would be a storybook moment for Canada’s captain and a major boost heading into the 2026 World Cup.

Davies, who was born in a refugee camp in Ghana has already extended his contract with Bayern Munich, fending off interest from Real Madrid.