Toulouse defender Rafik Messali faces two-month absence after grade-three tear

Toulouse FC defender Rafik Messali is expected to miss the rest of 2026 after medical tests confirmed a serious grade-three tear.

The Algeria-born French defender was forced off injured during Toulouse FC’s match against Troyes. The injury is expected to keep him out for about two months, depriving the Ligue 1 club of an important defensive option during a significant period of the season.

Messali will now begin a period of treatment and strict rest, with his return to competitive football not expected before 2027. His immediate focus will be on rehabilitation.