Asante Kotoko has suffered a major setback with the confirmation that their deputy captain and dependable right-back, Lord Amoah, has been ruled out for an extended period—effectively the remainder of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season—due to a severe knee injury.
The 22-year-old, who previously played for Berekum Chelsea before joining the Porcupine Warriors, was forced off the field early in Kotoko’s recent away match against Young Apostles in Wenchi.
The club secured a solid 2-0 victory on matchday 23, but Amoah lasted only 19 minutes before a heavy, described by some reports as horrific or brutal, challenge left him unable to continue and requiring him to be stretchered off (though some accounts note he was substituted around the later stages, the injury occurred early in play).
The club’s medical team quickly arranged for his transport back to Kumasi for thorough assessment. An MRI scan (referred to in some sources as IMR) subsequently confirmed the diagnosis: a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) combined with a tear or significant damage to the medial meniscus.
This duo of injuries is among the more serious knee issues in football, often necessitating surgical reconstruction of the ACL followed by meniscus repair or trimming, then a prolonged rehab phase involving physiotherapy, strength rebuilding, and gradual return-to-play protocols.
Amoah is scheduled to undergo surgery in the coming days, after which he will begin an intensive recovery program. Typical timelines for full return from such combined injuries range from 6-12 months, depending on surgical outcomes, individual healing, and rehab progress, making his absence a long-term one that will impact Kotoko’s defensive setup significantly.
Beyond the club level, the injury comes as a particularly tough blow for Amoah personally. Reports indicate he had caught the attention of the Black Stars technical team and was on the verge of earning a call-up, potentially featuring in upcoming international friendlies ahead of major competitions like World Cup qualifiers or preparations.
His consistent performances this season, including defensive solidity and occasional attacking contributions from the right flank, had elevated his profile considerably.
Asante Kotoko issued an official injury update via their channels, expressing support for their player while acknowledging the challenge ahead. Fans and analysts alike have described it as a huge loss for both the team—currently competing in the league—and the young defender’s rising career trajectory.
The club will now look to alternatives in the right-back position as they push forward in domestic and any continental commitments, all while rallying behind Amoah for what promises to be a challenging but hopefully successful road to recovery.