Kosovare Asllani has seemingly played her last minute of the season after it was confirmed that the London City Lionesses star has a ‘multi-ligament injury’.
The Sweden captain, who has played in all 19 of the Bromley-based side’s Women’s Super League fixtures, had to be stretchered off the field of play in their 1-1 draw with West Ham United on Sunday, a result which saw Eder Maestre’s side jump above Everton and into 7th place.
Lionesses Confirm Devastating Blow
The 36-year-old managed 22 minutes since returning as a substitute for the Lionesses, but in the final moments of the match fell after her left leg planted awkwardly in the surface at Dagenham & Redbridge‘s Victoria Road stadium.
Asllani was then stretchered off the field, with the club confirming in a statement on social media that she will be out of action for an indefinite period while further scans are ongoing.
“London City Lionesses can confirm that Kosovare Asllani suffered a complex multi-ligament injury, including anterior cruciate ligament, in our Barclays Women’s Super League match against West Ham United on Sunday.
“The London City captain was substituted in second half stoppage time at the Chigwell Construction Stadium and underwent further assessment on Monday to determine the extent of the injury.
“She is now awaiting specialist review later this week to determine next steps and her recovery timeline. Everyone at London City will be supporting Kosovare closely throughout the journey ahead.
The Lionesses are mathematically safe from relegation this season and with three games of their campaign remaining, there is little to play for in terms of accolades, with their next match against bottom-side Leicester City at the end of April.
Huge Blow For Future
Confirmation of a complex multi-ligament injury to club captain Kosovare Asllani is a devastating blow for London City Lionesses for this campaign and likely going into the next season.
It is a heartbreaking scenario for the 36-year-old, who was moments away from the final whistle before succumbing to injury while contesting the ball in her own half.
While there is yet to be a timeline for recovery, it will not be surprising if Asllani’s injury layoff will be close to a year, given the severity of the damage and will surely force Eder Mastre into finding alternative options to play up front and in attacking midfielder over the summer transfer window.
Looking forward, her injury will likely disrupt her plans in preparing for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, but should be able to recover in time to lead Sweden in their quest for a first title after a positive showing in 2023.
