Zambian striker Patson Daka faces an uncertain future regarding his participation in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, following a significant ankle injury sustained during a pre-season friendly. Leicester City confirmed the injury update, revealing that Daka, who limped off the pitch during a match against France’s RC Lens, will be sidelined for an extended period.
Daka, 25, who was named the 2017 African Youth Player of the Year, will miss Leicester City’s opening English Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday.
The injury also casts doubt on his availability for Zambia’s crucial AFCON qualifiers scheduled for next month, where the Chipolopolo are set to face Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone.
Leicester City manager Steve Cooper provided further details on the club’s official website, expressing his disappointment over the injury.
“Patson [Daka] obviously is not great news,” Cooper stated.“He suffered quite a serious ankle injury last week in the game in Lens, and he is going to be out for a good few months. He’s having an operation today (Friday).
That’s really unfortunate for him because he was looking good in pre-season.”
Daka’s absence is a significant blow to both Leicester City and the Zambian national team.
Known for his speed and goal-scoring prowess, Daka has been a key figure for Zambia, scoring 21 goals in 48 appearances for the national team.
His form in recent years has made him a crucial player for the Chipolopolo, who are aiming to secure qualification for the 2025 AFCON.
The injury comes at a critical time for Daka, who had shown promising signs during pre-season, positioning himself as a vital player for Leicester City in the upcoming Premier League campaign.
His impressive performances in the build-up to the season had raised expectations, with many hoping he would play a central role in Leicester’s push for a top finish.
For Zambia, Daka’s injury presents a challenging scenario as they prepare for the AFCON qualifiers.
The national team will have to navigate these important matches without their star striker, relying on other players to step up in his absence.
The Chipolopolo will need to find alternative solutions in attack to maintain their momentum and keep their hopes of qualification alive.
As Daka begins his recovery, the focus will be on his rehabilitation and the timeline for his return to the pitch.
Leicester City and Zambia will be closely monitoring his progress, hoping for a swift recovery that will allow him to contribute to both club and country in the near future.
However, with an expected absence of several months, both teams will need to adapt to life without one of their most dynamic and influential players.
