Al Ahly defender Karim Fouad has been sidelined for crucial Champions League matches following ACL surgery, marking his second similar injury in two seasons.
Karim Fouad will miss a significant portion of Al Ahly’s CAF Champions League campaign after undergoing knee surgery on Saturday. The 24-year-old defender sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during Al Ahly’s narrow 1-0 victory over Smouha at Alexandria’s Borg Stadium, where the club celebrated its Egyptian league title last season. This injury is a troubling repeat of last year’s setback, which also sidelined Fouad and disrupted his season.
“Karim Fouad, our defender, underwent successful knee surgery in Germany following the ACL injury he suffered last season,” the club announced in a press release.
The recurrence of this injury raises serious concerns about Fouad’s long-term fitness and his role in the team’s defensive lineup.
Ahmed Gaballah, Al Ahly’s team doctor, provided a positive update on Fouad’s condition, stating, “The player’s condition is stable, and he will begin his rehabilitation program a few days after his return to Cairo.” This rehabilitation will be crucial for Fouad, who has become a key player for the team since joining in the summer of 2021.
During his time at Al Ahly, Fouad has been a significant contributor, helping the team secure nine different titles. Initially playing as a right-back, Fouad has shown remarkable versatility and skill, especially when he stepped in for injured left-back Ali Maaloul. Maaloul, another vital player for Al Ahly, has been dealing with an Achilles tendon rupture, further complicating the team’s defensive situation.
Last season, Fouad appeared in 39 matches across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing four assists. His performance has underscored not only his defensive prowess but also his ability to contribute offensively, making him a valuable asset in crucial matches.
In response to Fouad’s absence, Al Ahly has taken steps to strengthen its defense. The club recently signed Moroccan left-back Yahia Attiyat Allah. However, it is likely that Omar Kamal or Kareem El-Debes will be called upon to play at left-back during the upcoming CAF Champions League matches against Gor Mahia.
The first leg of this vital encounter is scheduled for Sunday, September 15, hosted by Gor Mahia, with the return leg to follow a week later at Al Salam Stadium in Cairo.
