Injuries are already having a major influence on the 2026/27 Premier League season.
While some players are expected to return shortly after the extended international break, others face months of rehabilitation. Serious knee injuries remain the most damaging, but lengthy back, tendon, foot and muscle problems are also affecting squads across the division.
The distinction between a short-term and long-term injury is not always precise. For this article, a long-term absence generally means a player is expected to miss at least six weeks, has already been unavailable for a substantial period or has no confirmed return date because of a serious condition.
Recovery estimates can change as rehabilitation progresses. A player may return to training but still require several weeks before being ready for competitive Premier League football.
The information below reflects the latest available updates as of 5 October 2026.
Amadou Onana, Aston Villa
Injury: Anterior cruciate ligament
Amadou Onana is facing one of the longest injury absences in the Premier League.
The Aston Villa midfielder suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury while representing Belgium at the 2026 World Cup. The injury occurred during Belgium’s last-16 victory over the United States in July.
Onana subsequently underwent surgery and began a rehabilitation programme expected to keep him out for most, and potentially all, of the 2026/27 season.
An absence of between six and nine months is common following an ACL rupture, although recovery can take longer when a player experiences complications or needs additional time to rebuild match fitness. Some estimates have placed Onana’s potential return in spring 2027.
His injury represents a significant loss for Aston Villa. Onana offers height, ball-winning ability and physical presence in midfield, while also contributing during defensive and attacking set pieces.
Villa cannot simply replace him with one player. His absence affects the team’s midfield balance, aerial strength and capacity to defend transitions.
Even when Onana returns to training, he will require a carefully managed reintroduction….
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