Villarreal have confirmed that Congolese international defender Willy Kambuala will be out of action for approximately four months after sustaining a serious muscle injury during a pre-season friendly against Genoa.
The 20-year-old centre-back suffered a torn muscle in his left hamstring, with medical scans later confirming the extent of the damage.
The setback is a significant blow to Villarreal’s preparations ahead of the upcoming La Liga campaign, with Kambuala expected to be a key figure in the club’s defensive setup.
His injury not only disrupts Villarreal’s short-term plans but also has implications for the DR Congo national team. Kambuala will miss the Leopards’ two crucial fixtures in September as part of their qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The absence of the promising young defender presents a major selection dilemma for both club and country.
The injury occurred during what was intended to be a routine build-up fixture, but it has now forced Villarreal’s coaching staff to reassess their defensive options.
Kambuala had been steadily gaining prominence within the squad, and his form last season suggested he was on course for an important role this term.
Villarreal’s medical team will now oversee an intensive rehabilitation programme aimed at ensuring a full recovery.
The club, in an official statement, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Kambuala throughout the recovery process.
“The club will provide all the necessary resources to help Willy recover quickly and return to top condition,” the statement read. “We stand fully behind our player during this difficult period.”
Head coach Marcelino now faces the task of reshuffling his defence in the absence of one of his key young assets.
Villarreal will need to lean on their depth in the defensive ranks, possibly accelerating the integration of other squad members or seeking cover in the transfer market if needed.
For DR Congo, the timing of Kambuala’s injury could not be worse. The World Cup qualifiers in September are pivotal, and his absence leaves a gap in the heart of the defence.
The national team’s technical staff will now have to evaluate alternative options to ensure stability at the back for the crucial double-header.
Kambuala’s injury has also been met with concern among fans of both Villarreal and the Congolese national team, many of whom took to social media to express their support for the player and wish him a swift recovery.
Though the road to recovery will be demanding, Villarreal remain optimistic about his return later in the season.
With proper care and patience, the club believes Kambuala can resume his trajectory as one of their most promising young defenders.
Until then, the Yellow Submarine will have to navigate the early stages of their domestic and European campaigns without one of their rising stars.
