Lyon’s Gueida Fofana Targets Early 2015 Return After Injury Battle
Lyon — Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Gueida Fofana could return to competitive football earlier than previously feared, with a potential comeback now set for early 2015 following a long and complicated injury layoff.
The 23-year-old has been sidelined since April due to persistent cartilage and ankle issues that required multiple surgeries, raising concerns about the future of his career. Fofana first underwent arthroscopic surgery in France, which failed to resolve the issue. He later sought further treatment in Porto in a bid to finally overcome the problem.
Initial reports had speculated the injury could keep him out of action for a full year, or even force a premature retirement. However, Olympique Lyonnais head coach Hubert Fournier offered a much more optimistic assessment this week, confirming that the player is making encouraging progress in his recovery.
“He’ll be off his crutches and back at Tola Vologe (the club’s training ground) in a few days,” Fournier told reporters. “He’s making good progress—very positive signs. We’re still hoping for a return in January or February.”
Fofana, once considered among France’s most promising midfielders, has not played a competitive match for Lyon since early 2014. His absence has been keenly felt, particularly in a youthful Lyon side that has at times lacked depth and leadership in midfield.
Although Fournier has yet to work with Fofana on the training pitch, the coach is clearly counting on the player’s eventual return to bolster his options heading into the second half of the season.
“We’ve always said we’re counting on him. He’s still an important part of our plans,” Fournier added.
Back in September, Fournier had revealed just how serious the situation had been, admitting that Fofana was at one point close to calling time on his professional career due to the severity of the injury.
A product of Le Havre’s renowned academy, Fofana joined Lyon in 2011 and quickly established himself as a key figure in midfield, known for his vision, composure, and ability to dictate play. He also captained France’s U20 side to victory in the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup, underlining his status as one of the country’s most highly rated young talents.
While the road to full fitness has been long and uncertain, Lyon fans will be hopeful that Fofana’s return marks the start of a new chapter in what once looked to be a very promising career.
With a potential return on the horizon, attention will now turn to whether the French midfielder can rediscover his form and durability in time to contribute meaningfully to Lyon’s domestic and European ambitions in the latter half of the season.
