Aston Villa's Amadou Onana ruptures ACL

Aston Villa and Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee while featuring at the World Cup.

The 24-year-old was substituted just 21 minutes into his side's 4-1 victory over the United States in the last 16. Onana went down after a challenge involving Christian Pulisic and was later seen on crutches and wearing a knee brace.

Unfortunately, the medical examinations have confirmed that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. We immediately consulted with Amadou and with Aston Villa to agree on the best approach to his recovery. Brahim Hacene, Belgium team doctor

The injury marks a significant blow for the player and his club, with ACL ruptures typically requiring between six and nine months of recovery. Onana, who joined Villa in a £50m deal from Everton in 2024, made 38 appearances last term.

Aston Villa, who won the Europa League and finished fourth in the Premier League, are preparing for a campaign that features Champions League football. The club and the Belgium medical staff are now coordinating the next steps for his treatment and rehabilitation.