Super Eagles midfielder Uche has surgery after serious knee injury

Nigeria midfielder Christantus Uche has undergone successful surgery after suffering a serious right-knee injury in pre-season. The 23-year-old Getafe player is expected to miss the rest of the season following damage to several ligaments and the meniscus.

Uche was injured during Getafe’s pre-season match on August 6, when a tackle by Christian Mawissa ended his involvement. He had to be carried from the pitch before further examinations confirmed the extent of the damage.

The operation was required because the injury affected multiple structures in his right knee. Its timing means Uche will be unavailable to Getafe for the remainder of the campaign and leaves Nigeria without one of its midfield options for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying programme.

Uche also faces a major doubt over his participation at the Africa Cup of Nations finals. His recovery will determine whether he can return in time, although the injury is expected to keep him out for a prolonged period.

The midfielder posted a photograph after the procedure on August 19 and expressed appreciation to the medical team led by Dr Bertrand Sonnrey-Cottet. He also thanked his agent, Getafe’s coaching staff and players, as well as supporters who offered messages, prayers and encouragement.

Uche had been involved regularly during Getafe’s preparations before the injury. His latest setback follows a difficult loan spell at Crystal Palace last season, where he appeared in 22 matches but played only 477 minutes.

Palace held an option to sign him permanently but did not take it up, sending him back to Getafe amid speculation about his future. He must now focus on rehabilitation after surgery, with his return to club and international football dependent on his recovery.