Ghana’s World Cup ambitions have taken a major hit after AS Monaco confirmed that defender Mohammed Salisu has sustained a serious knee injury, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. The setback puts his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in serious doubt.
Salisu picked up the injury during Monaco’s 3–1 defeat to Olympique Lyonnais, a night that proved costly for the club on multiple fronts. Not only did Monaco drop vital points in their bid for European qualification, but the match also saw a string of injuries to key players.
AS Monaco confirmed on Monday that the Ghanaian international suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his left knee. “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 in a statement. “Medical examinations revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The club will support Mohammed throughout his recovery and is behind him all the way.”
The injury marks the second ACL injury the club has endured in consecutive matches, raising further concerns over squad depth. Prior to this setback, Salisu had cemented his role as a regular starter, stepping up in the absence of Mawissa and Eric Dier, and providing stability to Monaco’s backline.
For Ghana, Salisu’s absence would be a significant blow. The 26-year-old has been a central figure for the Black Stars, forming a reliable defensive partnership with Alexander Djiku. Beyond his defensive duties, Salisu has contributed crucial goals, including a memorable strike against South Korea in the 2022 World Cup.
His potential absence leaves a substantial gap in Ghana’s defense, with the team set to miss his leadership, physical presence, and consistency on the world stage.
Salisu’s injury also continues a troubling trend for Ghanaian internationals, following ACL setbacks for players including Fatawu Issahaku, Alidu Seidu, Ernest Nuamah, Abdul Mumin, and Baba Iddrisu over the past year.
Attention now turns to surgery and rehabilitation, as Salisu embarks on a long road back to full fitness, with hopes of returning to the pitch in the future.
