Anderlecht Dismisses Claims of Onyekuru’s Quick Return, Affirms Necessity of Surgery

Belgian football club Anderlecht has refuted recent reports suggesting that Nigerian striker Henry Onyekuru’s injury does not require surgery, emphasizing that the player is set to undergo a medical procedure and will be sidelined for several months. Onyekuru sustained the injury during Anderlecht’s 1-0 league victory against his former club, KAS Eupen, last weekend, with subsequent tests revealing a tear in his knee ligaments.

In a statement released on Friday through the Anderlecht website, the club clarified, “In some media, the message appeared today that our striker Henry Onyekuru would not have to go under the knife after he was injured in the match against KAS Eupen.” The club’s medical staff and treating physician, following comprehensive examinations, maintained the necessity of surgical intervention. The severity of the injury dictates an extended period of recovery for the young attacker.

The statement further indicated, “In view of the severity of the injury, the attacker will be out of action for several months to be able to recover optimally. Further details are discussed with Onyekuru’s mother club Everton.”

Onyekuru, who joined Everton at the beginning of the season from Eupen, was immediately loaned out to Anderlecht. Despite a slow start, he has showcased impressive form, scoring nine goals in 19 league appearances and 10 goals in 28 games across all competitions, primarily operating as a wide forward. The club emphasized the importance of the upcoming surgery to facilitate Onyekuru’s optimal rehabilitation and recovery.