Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana is facing a lengthy spell out after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during Belgium’s World Cup win over the United States men’s national team on Monday.
The 24-year-old was forced off in the 21st minute of Belgium’s last-16 victory after sustaining the knee injury. He was later spotted on crutches with a brace around his right knee.
Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku paid tribute to his team-mate after scoring his side’s fourth goal in their 4-1 win, celebrating by holding up Onana’s No. 24 shirt during second-half stoppage time.
The injury is a major setback for Villa, with manager Unai Emery planning to build his midfield around a trio featuring Onana, Boubacar Kamara and Youri Tielemans.
The club had not intended to strengthen in that area during the transfer window, but Onana’s absence means they will now need to reassess their plans.
Villa are also awaiting the return of Kamara, who has been sidelined since January after suffering a posterior cruciate ligament injury in his left knee during the club’s FA Cup third-round victory over Tottenham Hotspur.
The Athletic reported in June that Kamara is targeting a return to full fitness in time for the start of pre-season.
Onana joined Villa from Everton in the summer of 2024 and has made 72 appearances for the club. He featured 38 times in all competitions last season as Villa lifted the Europa League trophy and secured Champions League qualification.
Belgium advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals with their victory over co-hosts the United States and will face Spain in the last eight on Friday.
