World Cup 2026: Amadou Onana faces lengthy layoff after ACL injury

Aston Villa have been dealt a major setback after midfielder Amadou Onana suffered a serious knee injury during Belgium’s World Cup victory over the United States, leaving the club facing a difficult decision ahead of the new season.

The 24-year-old is expected to miss an extended period after sustaining a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during Belgium’s 4-1 last-16 win on Tuesday.

Onana’s tournament ended prematurely when he was forced off in the 21st minute after damaging his right knee. The midfielder was later spotted leaving the stadium on crutches while wearing a protective brace, raising immediate concerns over the severity of the injury.

The setback was confirmed as a significant blow for both Belgium and Villa, who had identified Onana as a central figure in their plans under manager Unai Emery.

Lukaku pays tribute as Villa plans disrupted

Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku highlighted the importance of Onana’s contribution by celebrating his fourth goal against the United States by holding up the midfielder’s number 24 shirt.

The emotional gesture underlined the impact of losing a player who had become an important presence in Belgium’s midfield during their World Cup campaign.

For Aston Villa, however, the focus now turns to how they respond to the long-term absence of one of their key players.

Emery had planned to build his midfield around a trio consisting of Onana, Boubacar Kamara and Youri Tielemans, with the combination viewed as a foundation for Villa’s ambitions domestically and in Europe.

The club had not intended to strengthen that area of the squad during the transfer window, but Onana’s injury is expected to force a reassessment of their recruitment strategy.

A difficult setback after impressive Villa rise

Onana joined Aston Villa from Everton in the summer of 2024 and quickly established himself as an important member of Emery’s squad.

The Belgium international has made 72 appearances for the club and featured 38 times across all competitions last season as Villa enjoyed a memorable campaign, winning the Europa League and securing qualification for the Champions League.

His physical presence, defensive ability and ability to drive forward from midfield made him a key part of Villa’s tactical structure.

The injury also comes at a challenging time for Villa, with another central midfielder, Kamara, recovering from a serious knee problem.

Kamara has been sidelined since January after suffering a posterior cruciate ligament injury during Villa’s FA Cup third-round victory against Tottenham Hotspur. Reports earlier this year indicated the Frenchman is aiming to return in time for pre-season.

Belgium march on without Onana

Despite losing Onana, Belgium progressed to the World Cup quarter-finals after comfortably defeating hosts United States.

They will now prepare for a difficult last-eight meeting against Spain on Friday, but will have to continue their campaign without one of their midfield leaders.