Aston Villa and Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana has suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee, sustaining the injury during Belgium's 4-1 victory over the United States in the World Cup round of 16.

The 24-year-old was forced off the pitch just 21 minutes into the match after going down in pain while attempting to reach the ball ahead of Christian Pulisic. He received treatment on the field before limping away and was later spotted on crutches, wearing a knee brace.

A devastating blow confirmed

Belgium team doctor Brahim Hacene described the diagnosis as "devastating news" after medical examinations confirmed the extent of the damage. "Unfortunately, the medical examinations have confirmed that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament," Hacene said in an official statement.

"We immediately consulted with Amadou and with Aston Villa to agree on the best approach to his recovery. Over the coming days, we will jointly determine the next steps in his medical treatment and rehabilitation. We will continue to provide Amadou with our full support."

Despite the injury, Belgium confirmed that Onana would remain with the squad for their quarter-final against Spain in Los Angeles on Friday.

Long road to recovery ahead

Partial tears or full ruptures of the ACL typically keep players sidelined for six to nine months, raising serious concerns about Onana's availability for the start of the 2026-27 club season.

The timing is particularly painful for Aston Villa. The Midlands club—who won the Europa League and finished fourth in the Premier League in 2025-26—are preparing for a campaign that includes UEFA Champions League football.

Onana joined Villa in a £50 million transfer from Everton in July 2024 and made 38 appearances last season, contributing two goals. He had already featured prominently at the World Cup, starting Belgium's opening group game—a 1-1 draw against Egypt—before coming on as a substitute in wins against New Zealand and Senegal.