- Ghanaian Midfielder Mohammed Abdul Kadiri Sidelined with Season-Ending ACL and LCL Injury Ahead of ISL Opener
Mohammedan SC has been dealt a major blow ahead of their inaugural Indian Super League (ISL) season, where they are set to host NorthEast United FC in their opener on September 16. Ghanaian midfielder Abdul Kadiri Mohammed, who was expected to be the midfield anchor for the black-and-white Brigade, has been ruled out of the entire season due to a severe ACL injury.
According to a source close to the club, Kadiri sustained both ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) and LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament) injuries in his left knee during a training session on Thursday. An MRI scan was performed to assess the extent of the injury, and the results indicate that Kadiri will have to undergo surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process to make a comeback.
“An MRI scan was conducted on Friday, and the report confirmed a serious ACL and LCL injury in his knee. He will need surgery and will be out for the entire season,” said a source close to the club.
The I-League champions have been gearing up for their inaugural ISL season, aiming to make a strong impression. Under the leadership of Andrey Chernyshov, the team made some exciting signings during the transfer window while largely retaining the core group that won the I-League.
Kadiri, who has played for Ukrainian Side Dinamo Kiev, was seen as a key addition to the squad, given his ability to play both as a defensive midfielder and a center-back, and he was an integral part of Chernyshov’s plans. However, his season-ending injury has forced the club management to seek a suitable replacement.
The Kolkata giants will face Durand Cup champions North East United FC in their tournament opener and are expected to encounter tough challenges from other ISL sides throughout the season. The management believes that finding an immediate replacement is crucial to restoring balance to the squad. With the transfer window already closed, Mohammedan SC can only sign free agents or players who have terminated their contracts with their previous clubs.
“Kadiri was a key player for us, and our plans centered around him in midfield. Now we need to find a replacement,” the source added.
In addition, Mohammed Jasim, a versatile full-back, and Bikash Singh, who returned to the club on loan just before the transfer window closed, are also injured. Jasim, currently undergoing rehabilitation, is expected to return in three-four weeks, while Bikash is also anticipated to recover soon.
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