FP
Fakayejo Paul
Aston Villa midfielder Leon Goretzka will have to wait for his club debut after suffering a knee injury during training.
The 31-year-old German international, who joined Unai Emery’s side on a free transfer late in August following his departure from Bayern Munich, experienced a physical reaction as he built up his intensity following his spell off the pitch.
Key Injury Details & Timeline
- Reason for Absence:Goretzka’s body reacted to the sudden increase in workload as he pushed for match fitness, resulting in a knee issue that requires a short recovery period.
- Target Return Date:Villa’s medical staff expects him back available after the upcoming international break, targeting the Premier League fixture against Brentford on October 10 for his potential debut.
- Matches Missed:Goretzka will miss Villa’s Champions League opening match against Club Brugge, alongside domestic fixtures against Nottingham Forest, Coventry City, and Tottenham Hotspur.
- Emery’s Options:With Goretzka sidelined and Amadou Onana a long-term absentee, Unai Emery will rely on Ross Barkley, João Gomes, Lamare Bogarde, and Boubacar Kamara in midfield.