Belgium and Villa midfielder Onana suffers ACL rupture at World Cup

Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee while representing Belgium at the World Cup. The 24-year-old was forced off just 21 minutes into Belgium’s 4-1 round-of-16 victory over the United States after collapsing while trying to reach the ball ahead of Christian Pulisic. Onana received treatment on the pitch before limping off, and was later seen on crutches with a knee brace. Belgium team doctor Brahim Hacene confirmed the diagnosis in a statement. “Unfortunately, the medical examinations have shown that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament,” Hacene said. “We immediately consulted with him and Aston Villa to agree on the best recovery plan. Together we will determine the next steps for his treatment and rehabilitation. We will continue to give Amadou our full support.” Belgium confirmed that Onana will remain with the squad ahead of Friday’s quarterfinal against Spain in Los Angeles (20:00 BST). ACL injuries of this nature typically sideline players for six to nine months. Onana started Belgium’s tournament opener, a 1-1 draw with Egypt, and came off the bench in wins over New Zealand and Senegal. The injury comes at a critical time for Aston Villa. The club won the Europa League and finished fourth in the Premier League in the 2025-26 season, earning a spot in next season’s Champions League. Onana, who joined Villa from Everton for £50m in July 2024, made 38 appearances last season and scored two goals.