Injury Blow Halts Mbokani’s Transfer Hopes
Dynamo Kyiv and DR Congo striker Dieumerci Mbokani has suffered a significant setback, both personally and professionally, following a serious knee injury that is expected to sideline him for at least four months.
The 28-year-old forward sustained the injury during a recent training session and has since undergone surgery in Antwerp. Reports suggest the issue involves ligament damage, which now puts his immediate footballing future on hold and all but rules out any chance of a summer transfer.
Mbokani, who has been vocal about his desire to return to Western Europe, had been linked with several clubs over the past few months. Most notably, Standard Liège were reportedly interested in bringing the Congolese international back to Belgium, following the departures of strikers Imoh Ezekiel and Michy Batshuayi.
However, with the recovery timeline pushing well into the latter part of the year, a move now appears off the table. This latest development is a bitter disappointment for both the player and potential suitors, especially given Mbokani’s desire to leave Ukraine amidst growing uncertainty in the region and his wish to re-establish himself in a top European league.
The injury also comes at a crucial time in Mbokani’s career. He had hoped to revive his form and attract attention ahead of the January transfer window, but the long layoff significantly alters those plans.
Mbokani has enjoyed a storied career in both African and European football. After breaking through at Congolese giants TP Mazembe, he moved to Europe, joining Belgian side RSC Anderlecht and later Standard Liège, where he made a strong impression. His return to Belgium in 2011, after spells in France and Germany, proved a turning point — highlighted by winning the Belgian Golden Shoe in the 2011–2012 season while at Anderlecht.
His move to Dynamo Kyiv in 2013 was initially seen as a step up, with the Ukrainian club competing regularly in European competitions. But despite moments of brilliance, Mbokani’s time in Kyiv has been overshadowed by injuries and off-field issues, leading to speculation that he would seek a move this summer.
Now, the priority for the experienced forward will be recovery and rehabilitation. Both Dynamo Kyiv and the DR Congo national team will hope to see him return to full fitness in time for early 2025 competitions, though that will depend on the progress of his recovery.
For Mbokani, the dream of a move back to Western Europe may still be alive — but it will have to wait.
