Ghana’s World Cup hopes have suffered a major setback following confirmation that Mohammed Salisu has sustained a serious knee injury that will keep him out of action for the remainder of the season.
The AS Monaco defender picked up the injury during his side’s 3–1 defeat to Olympique Lyonnais, a night that proved costly for the Principality club on several fronts.
A la toute fin du match contre l’Olympique Lyonnais, notre défenseur central Mohammed Salisu a été touché au genou gauche.
Les examens médicaux ont révélé une rupture du ligament croisé antérieur.
Le Club accompagnera Mohammed tout au long de son rétablissement et lui apporte… pic.twitter.com/uLMADzrCA8
— AS Monaco ???????? (@AS_Monaco) January 5, 2026
Not only did the result see Monaco lose further ground in their push for European qualification, it was also marred by a string of injuries to key players.
Monaco confirmed on Monday that Salisu suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, a diagnosis that effectively ends his campaign and places his participation in Ghana’s upcoming World Cup in serious doubt.
In a statement, AS Monaco confirmed the diagnosis and pledged their support to the player throughout his recovery.
“At the very end of the match against Olympique Lyonnais, our centre-back Mohammed Salisu suffered an injury to his left knee,” the club said.
“Medical examinations revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The Club will support Mohammed throughout his recovery and is behind him all the way.”
The setback is particularly concerning as it marks the second ACL injury suffered by the club in consecutive matches.
Prior to the injury, Salisu had established himself as a regular starter, stepping up in the absence of Mawissa and experienced defender Eric Dier. His strong displays had brought much-needed stability to Monaco’s backline, underlining his importance to the team.
For Ghana, the loss of Salisu would be deeply felt. The 26-year-old has been instrumental for the four-time AFCON champions, forming a solid and reliable partnership with Alexander Djiku at the heart of defense. His influence goes beyond defending, with the centre-back also contributing crucial goals, including his strike in Ghana’s memorable win over South Korea at the 2022 World Cup.
Salisu’s potential absence leaves a significant void in the Black Stars’ defensive setup, with his leadership, physical presence, and consistency set to be sorely missed on the world stage.
Salisu’s setback also adds to a growing list of Ghanaian internationals who have suffered similar injuries over the past year. Fatawu Issahaku, Alidu Seidu, Ernest Nuamah, Abdul Mumin and Baba Iddrisu have all fallen victim.
For Salisu, attention now turns to surgery and rehabilitation, with the immediate focus on recovery as he begins a long road back to full fitness
