Amadou Onana faces eight‑month layoff after ACL tear at World Cup

Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana, 24, ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the round‑of‑16 match against the United States at the 2026 World Cup. The injury will keep him out of action for about eight months and requires surgery, ending his season with both the Belgium national team and Aston Villa.

Onana posted an emotional Instagram message, saying, “From the moment I fell to the ground, my world collapsed,” and describing the days after as a nightmare. He reflected on questions of why him, expressed gratitude to teammates, fans and his faith, and pledged to use the ordeal to grow as a player and person.