Ngal’ayel Mukau, the promising 19-year-old midfielder from Lille, has been forced to withdraw from his first call-up to the DR Congo national team due to an injury. The young player, who had traveled to Kinshasa to join the squad for the September international fixtures, sustained an ankle injury that has now ruled him out of participation. This was confirmed by DR Congo’s head coach, Sébastien Desabre, during a press conference on Thursday.
“The situation is that the whole group is complete, that we have a player who came with an ankle injury, Mukau, and has returned to Lille to receive treatment,” Desabre stated.
This unfortunate injury means Mukau will be unable to make his debut for the national team during this window.
Mukau, who had previously represented Belgium at the U18 level in 2022, joined Lille earlier this season and has already made two appearances for the French club.
His talent and potential were recognized by DR Congo, leading to his inclusion in the national team squad for the first time. However, the injury setback has delayed his opportunity to make an impact on the international stage.
While Mukau’s absence is a blow to the DR Congo team, the squad still expects to see new faces during this international break.
Nathanaël Mbuku, who recently transferred to Dinamo Zagreb from the French Olympic team, is anticipated to join the squad on Wednesday.
Mbuku’s arrival is much-awaited following his transfer, which adds further depth to the team.
Additionally, Noah Sadiki, who has now completed the necessary administrative processes, is also expected to make his first appearance for DR Congo during this period.
Mukau’s return to Lille for treatment highlights the challenges young players often face when transitioning from club football to the international arena.
As the player undergoes recovery, both his club and country will be hoping for a swift return to fitness, allowing him to continue his promising career trajectory.
Despite the setback, Mukau’s potential remains undoubted, and his debut for DR Congo will be eagerly anticipated when he regains full fitness.
Meanwhile, the DR Congo squad will focus on their upcoming fixtures, with hopes that the new additions will make a significant impact in Mukau’s absence.
