A significant concern is emerging for the Senegal national team as their influential captain and central defender, Kalidou Koulibaly of Al-Hilal, remains sidelined with a persistent thigh injury. With the World Cup fast approaching in less than two months, the prolonged absence of the 34-year-old, who boasts 102 caps and 2 goals for his nation, is causing considerable apprehension. He has not featured for his Saudi Pro League club since April 8th, leaving fans and coaching staff anxious about his fitness.
The former Napoli star sustained his thigh injury during a training session, and a definitive return date to competitive play remains elusive, just over six weeks before the global tournament. The Lions of Teranga are slated to compete in Group I, where they will face formidable opponents: France, Norway, and Iraq.
Al-Hilal’s cautious stance on Koulibaly’s return
During his most recent press briefing, Al-Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi adopted a guarded approach when discussing player injuries. He confirmed, « We currently have two players dealing with injuries, Malcom and Koulibaly. Malcom has made his return and is naturally prepared to play. Regarding Koulibaly, he sustained a thigh contusion, which resulted in a hematoma. We are monitoring his condition daily, and his comeback will be contingent on how he responds to treatment in the upcoming days. » This statement from the Italian coach underscores the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the star defender’s recovery.
The Saudi club further elaborated, stating that « Kalidou Koulibaly has been diligently following his rehabilitation program at the Meena clinic, located at the club’s headquarters. This follows medical examinations conducted in Spain which indicated the necessity for additional treatment sessions targeting the injury in his anterior thigh muscle. » With only six league fixtures remaining for Al-Hilal, the situation surrounding Koulibaly’s injury remains ambiguous. Having already missed the Africa Cup of Nations final and the March friendly matches against Peru (2-0) and Gambia (3-1), the critical question looms: will Kalidou Koulibaly regain fitness and play any minutes before the World Cup kicks off?