Manuel Locatelli Devastated by Knee Surgery, Faces Extended Absence

Manuel Locatelli has shared his profound sadness following knee surgery, with reports indicating a recovery time of five to six months. The Juventus midfielder stated, "It hurts knowing I won't be able to fight for Juventus."

Locatelli sustained a knee injury during the recent 1-1 draw against Milan. Subsequent examinations revealed meniscus damage, necessitating an operation performed in Lyon. Sources suggest his absence from the field could last between five and six months, a duration significantly longer than initially estimated.

Expressing his dismay on Instagram, Locatelli wrote, "I won't lie, I won't use cliches here, I am distraught. I finished the game the other night and never expected to be hit by all this the next morning." He added that while the operation was successful, the upcoming period of recovery and inability to support his teammates on the field is painful. Locatelli emphasized his commitment to a strong comeback, stating, "It will require patience, but I will work in every way possible to return stronger, as I always have done." He concluded with a message of resilience and gratitude: "Life is made up of these moments too, it is up to us to decide how we deal with them. I will fight as always, cultivating every day the desire to get back onto the field as soon as possible. Thank you all for your support."

The injury was not immediately apparent during the match at the Allianz Juventus Stadium. This setback adds to Juventus's injury concerns, with Jeremie Boga also sidelined for approximately five weeks due to a thigh lesion. The club is currently managing several other long-term absentees, including Kenan Yildiz, Khephren Thuram, Jeff Ekhator, Weston McKennie, Juan Cabal, Andrea Cambiaso, and Pape Matar Sarr.