Clínica Universidad de Navarra study on ACL injuries in professional football

A study by the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology at the Clínica Universidad de Navarra, covering 132 cases, reveals that while 97.7% of professional footballers return to competition after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, the long-term impact is significant. The research indicates that five years after the injury, more than 61% of analyzed players compete at a lower sporting level, and average playing time remains below their pre-injury values.

The study highlights a nine-month average recovery period and emphasizes that rehabilitation and relapse prevention are critical for long-term performance. The report uses recent high-profile cases to illustrate these challenges, such as Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who faced complications following an ACL rupture in September 2024, and Real Madrid's Rodrygo Goes, who suffered an ACL and meniscus injury in March 2026.