Amadou Onana suffers ACL rupture: Belgium and Aston Villa face long-term absence

Belgium and Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana has been dealt a devastating blow after tests confirmed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. The injury occurred during the World Cup round-of-16 tie against the United States. According to journalist David Ornstein, the diagnosis was made after Onana left the pitch in visible distress. The 22-year-old had started all four of Belgium’s matches at the tournament, anchoring the midfield with his trademark physicality and composure. For Belgium, losing a linchpin in the center of the park is a massive setback, especially at the knockout stage. Aston Villa also faces a significant gap in their squad, as Onana has grown into a vital part of Unai Emery’s setup. Further medical evaluations are expected in the coming days to determine the exact recovery timeline. Typically, an ACL tear sidelines a player for six to nine months, meaning Onana's season — and potentially his World Cup — is over.