Ghana have been dealt a major blow ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with team doctor Prince Pambo confirming that Mohammed Salisu’s recovery timeline extends beyond the tournament.
The AS Monaco defender ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during a January league clash with Olympique Lyonnais. After undergoing successful surgery, Salisu began a carefully managed rehabilitation programme, including intensive gym-based sessions to restore strength and movement in the knee.
However, a comprehensive medical evaluation carried out in France revealed the full scale of the injury. Doctors estimate the recovery will take at least nine months, ending any possibility of the centre-back featuring at the global showpiece.
In an interview with Accra-based Asempa FM, Dr Pambo explained that the nature of the knee injury requires a lengthy healing period despite encouraging early progress.
Salisu’s absence leaves a significant gap in Ghana’s defence, where he has established himself as one of the Black Stars’ most reliable performers. The technical team must now reconsider defensive combinations and squad depth before the tournament.
The team doctor also addressed the condition of midfielder Francis Abu, who picked up a severe ankle injury during Ghana’s Kirin Cup match against Japan in November.
Although doctors initially predicted a five-to-six-month recovery following surgery, he is reportedly improving well and responding positively to treatment.
Preparations for the World Cup continue regardless. Ghana are set to meet Panama, England and Croatia in the group stage, with additional friendly matches planned against Austria and Germany as part of their final pre-tournament schedule.
