Zaidu Sanusi suffers serious injury in first FC Porto game since return from AFCON
FC Porto’s preparation for their UEFA Champions League showdown against Arsenal has been dealt a significant blow with the injury of Nigerian defender Zaidu Sanusi during a league game against Estrela da Amadora.
Sanusi, who recently returned from representing Nigeria at the AFCON 2023, suffered a serious injury in his first game back for Porto after the tournament.
The 27-year-old left-back, who played a key role in Nigeria’s journey to the AFCON final, was forced off the field on a stretcher just 32 minutes into the match against Estrela da Amadora.
Porto manager Sergip Conceicao confirmed the extent of Sanusi’s injury during a post-match press conference, revealing that the defender would be sidelined for an extended period. The injury news comes as a blow to Porto, who will now have to navigate their upcoming Champions League fixture against Arsenal without Sanusi’s services.
Sanusi’s absence leaves a void in Porto’s defense, with Brazilian left-back Wendell expected to fill in for him during his recovery period. The severity of Sanusi’s injury, described as a knee problem by Portugal-based outlet A Bola, adds further concern to Porto’s defensive lineup as they prepare to face the Premier League side.
With Sanusi ruled out, Porto will be aiming to regroup and find alternative defensive solutions as they brace for the challenge posed by Arsenal in the Champions League round of 16 clash.
