Deportivo de La Coruña forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is expected to remain sidelined for approximately six to eight weeks following a successful arthroscopic procedure on his right knee. The 37-year-old striker, who has been a central figure for the Galician club this season, confirmed that the injury occurred during a match against Betis while he was attempting to retrieve a ball near the corner flag. The Gabon international has already begun his rehabilitation process at the club’s Abegondo training facility. He recalled that he extended his right leg to save a corner kick and felt the injury upon landing, noting that he woke up in poor condition the following day before seeking medical attention.
Recovery Progress and Return to Training
Aubameyang, who has already discarded his crutches, noted that his primary focus is ensuring the knee remains free of discomfort as he increases his workload. The forward has transitioned to stationary cycling in the gym as part of a cautious, step-by-step recovery plan. The striker described his current routine as “the Tour de France,” emphasizing that he is waiting for the meniscus to stabilize before attempting to run on the pitch. Once he is cleared to run, the medical staff will be able to provide a more precise timeline for his return to competitive play. During a recent day off for the squad, he filmed a lighthearted video in the gym alongside teammates Adama Traoré and Jonathan Asp Jensen, joking about their respective physiques.
Mental Impact of First Long-Term Injury
Reflecting on the setback, Aubameyang admitted that the diagnosis was difficult to process. He told reporters that this is the first time in his professional career that he has faced an injury requiring more than ten days of recovery. “When the doctor told me I had to have an arthroscopy, it was a little bit hard mentally,” Aubameyang stated. He credited the support of his family, particularly his brothers who traveled from Italy to be with him, as a crucial factor in his positive outlook during the initial stages of his recovery. He added that he feels he is starting over with “a new knee.”
Aubameyang Wins Best Player Award for September
Despite the injury, Aubameyang has been recognized for his contributions to Deportivo’s return to LaLiga, receiving the Estrella Galicia award for the best player of September. The forward, who has scored five goals for the club this season, expressed gratitude for the reception he has received from the fans in A Coruña. The player feels particularly settled in the city, describing his start with the club as a “dream landing” prior to the injury. He noted that he had prepared extensively before the season to succeed at the club.
Regarding the team’s current situation, Aubameyang has maintained a supportive stance toward his teammates, including fellow forward Bil Nsongo. Aubameyang expressed bewilderment regarding the recent string of unusual injuries within the squad, specifically referencing the clavicle and wrist injuries sustained by teammates Casadó and Eddahchouri, which he contrasted with his own more common knee issue. He expressed confidence that the team would return stronger following the international break.
Future Return of Goal Celebrations
Known for his acrobatic goal celebrations, Aubameyang has confirmed his intention to resume performing his trademark backflips once he is fully fit. While he is currently prioritizing his physical rehabilitation, he remains optimistic about returning to his typical style of play. “First I will recover well and later, when the meniscus is stable, we will see them again,” he explained to the media. The striker will miss the upcoming match against Real Sociedad at Anoeta but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to secure points in his absence.
Timeline for Return
Medical estimations for the injury, which required surgery in Madrid on September 24, suggest a recovery window of six to eight weeks. The striker’s progression will be monitored by the club’s staff, with a return to outdoor running serving as the next significant checkpoint in his recovery. While the team plays without their leading scorer, Aubameyang continues to work in the gym alongside teammates like Adama Traoré and Jonathan Asp Jensen. The squad is set to resume training this Tuesday at 17.00 following a three-day break after a friendly match against FC Porto.
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