Olympique Lyonnais have suffered a significant setback as Malick Fofana has been ruled out of the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final against Manchester United due to a knee injury.
The 19-year-old sensation, who has been instrumental in Lyon’s campaign with 10 goals and 5 assists across 35 appearances this season, sustained a sprained knee while representing Belgium during the international break .
According to L’Equipe, medical assessments indicate of the dynamic forward of Guinean descent will require approximately three weeks of rehabilitation, forcing him to miss several crucial fixtures in both domestic and European competitions.
The timing of the injury could not be more unfortunate for Lyon, as they prepare for a challenging schedule that includes both league and European commitments.
The talented forward will be absent for Lyon’s upcoming Ligue 1 fixture against RC Strasbourg Alsace, followed by a pivotal domestic clash with Lille on April 5.
Most significantly, Fofana will miss the highly anticipated first leg of the Europa League quarter-final against Manchester United, scheduled for the same day .
However, there is a silver lining for Lyon supporters, as Fofana is expected to return to fitness in time for the second leg at Old Trafford on April 17.
His potential availability for the return fixture could prove crucial for the French side’s hopes of progressing in the competition.
