AS Monaco midfielder Takumi Minamino made his long-awaited return to the pitch on December 3, playing 57 minutes in a 2-0 friendly win over Italian Serie B side Pisa SC. The appearance marked Minamino’s first competitive or friendly action in roughly 10 months following a severe knee injury sustained late last year.
Left Knee Injury Sustained Last December Against Auxerre
Minamino’s lengthy absence began on December 21 of the previous year, when he started a Coupe de France fixture against AJ Auxerre. The Japan international suffered a left knee injury midway through the first half and was forced off the pitch. Medical examinations conducted by AS Monaco the following day confirmed a torn left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), requiring extensive surgery and a rehabilitation program that sidelined him for nearly a year.
First Half Action and Active Shooting Against Pisa SC
In the friendly fixture at Monaco’s training facilities, Minamino was named in the starting lineup alongside defender Mohammed Salisu, who was also working his way back from a long-term injury. Minamino tested the Pisa defense in the 19th minute, unleashing a powerful left-footed shot that missed the target but signaled his intent. AS Monaco continued to press the opposition goalkeeper through the opening half, maintaining sustained pressure while Minamino operated in the starting attacking midfield role.
Second Half Substitution After Nearly an Hour of Play
Minamino remained on the pitch after halftime as the match stayed scoreless. Managerial staff withdrew him in the 57th minute, successfully managing his workload in his first appearance back. Shortly after his departure, Folarin Balogun broke the deadlock in the 59th minute by converting a penalty kick. Substitute Mika Biereth added a second goal in the 80th minute to secure the 2-0 victory for AS Monaco.
The friendly match served as a vital conditioning exercise for players remaining in the principality during the international break, providing necessary match fitness for those recovering from major injuries. For Minamino, the outing represents a crucial milestone in his return from an ACL tear.
Monaco Social Media Highlights Return and Upcoming Ligue 1 Fixture
AS Monaco acknowledged the midfielder’s return across its official X account, posting video footage of Minamino’s appearance with the caption “Taki is back,” highlighting his aggressive long-range attempt in the first half.
AS Monaco returns to competitive Ligue 1 action on December 10, hosting Toulouse at the Stade Louis II. Following his 57-minute run-out in the friendly against Pisa, attention turns to whether Minamino will earn a spot in the matchday squad for the upcoming league fixture.
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