Malick Fofana returns to Lyon training after long injury layoff

Malick Fofana has taken a significant step towards his return to action after joining Lyon in a full training session for the first time since suffering a serious ankle injury last year.

The 20-year-old Belgian winger had been sidelined since late October after sustaining a severe sprain to his right ankle during a match against Strasbourg.

His absence has kept him out of Lyon’s squad for several months while he underwent recovery and rehabilitation.

Fofana had previously begun working on his fitness individually as he continued to rebuild strength following the injury.

However, Monday’s session marked the first time he has trained fully with the rest of the Lyon squad since the setback, signalling progress in his recovery.

According to reports from the regional newspaper Le Progrès, Lyon’s medical staff intend to approach his return cautiously.

The club is said to be taking every possible measure to reduce the risk of a relapse as the winger increases his workload in training.

The careful approach means Fofana’s comeback will be closely managed in the coming days.

While he is now back in team training, the club’s medical team will continue to assess his physical condition before confirming when he can return to competitive action.

There is a possibility that the young winger could be included in the squad for Lyon’s upcoming match against Le Havre this weekend.

Another potential target for his return could be the Europa League round-of-16 fixture against Celta Vigo, depending on how his recovery progresses in training.

Fofana joined Lyon in January 2024 after leaving Belgian side Gent, arriving as one of the club’s promising young talents.

Since his move to France, he has been viewed as a player with significant potential for the club’s future.

The Belgian winger remains under contract with Lyon until 2028, underlining the club’s long-term commitment to the player.

His return to training therefore represents an encouraging development for both the player and the club as he works his way back from injury.

For now, Lyon’s priority will be ensuring that his recovery continues without complications, allowing Fofana to return to the pitch when he is fully fit.