KV Mechelen has been dealt a severe blow with the announcement that Zimbabwean striker Bill Antonio will be sidelined for the remainder of the season. The talented player, who recently extended his contract with the Belgian club, suffered a significant injury during the match against Cercle Brugge, forcing an untimely end to his campaign.
The club conveyed the unfortunate news through an official press release on Monday evening, shedding light on the extent of Bill Antonio’s injury. “Bill Antonio tore his cruciate ligaments on the pitch at Cercle Bruges and will be unavailable this season.
A rehabilitation period of six to nine months awaits him,” the statement read on the club’s official platform.
Despite a promising start to the season with the KV Mechelen reserve team, where he impressively netted five goals in 13 games, Bill Antonio’s ascent faced an abrupt halt
. His stellar performances earned him a promotion to the first team, coupled with a contract extension until 2027.
The 21-year-old continued to make an impact, contributing three goals in 12 appearances for the senior squad before the injury struck.
The setback is a significant blow for Bill Antonio and KV Mechelen, especially considering the player’s stellar form and recent contract commitment. The road to recovery is now paved with uncertainty, as cruciate ligament injuries often pose challenges to complete rehabilitation.
Zimbabwe, too, will feel the absence of Bill Antonio during the upcoming FIFA Days, scheduled for the end of this month.
The international break, set to unfold in Malawi, will proceed without the young striker, marking a considerable loss for the Zimbabwean national team.
As the football community extends its sympathies to Bill Antonio, hopes are pinned on his swift recovery and return to the pitch in the future.
