Yoane Wissa’s recent injury scare had Newcastle United fans holding their breath, with rumours circulating that the forward might have suffered a devastating ACL injury that could sideline him for the entire season.
Those claims quickly spread across social media, suggesting that the club was delaying an announcement until after the international break a rumour that didn’t make much sense to begin with.
In reality, such a major injury would never be kept secret by the club, especially at a time when speculation is running wild.
Fortunately, Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has provided clarity on the matter, putting supporters’ minds at ease.
Responding to fan concerns, Downie confirmed that Wissa has not suffered an ACL injury and remains on track for a return in roughly a month’s time.
His update stated that both the player and the club are prioritizing a full, proper recovery rather than rushing his return with injections or short-term fixes. The goal is to ensure he’s fully fit to help Newcastle through the busy winter period and not risk any long-term setbacks.
Downie explained that there’s early optimism Wissa could be back for matches around the week of the fixtures against Athletic Bilbao or Brentford, depending on how his recovery progresses.
Importantly, he emphasized that Wissa’s main focus right now is getting back to playing for Newcastle United and repaying the faith the club showed in him when they secured his signature over the summer.
The striker is said to be determined to contribute to Eddie Howe’s project rather than prioritizing his participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with DR Congo.
That commitment is significant given the circumstances surrounding his arrival and the injury itself. Wissa picked up the knee issue while on international duty before he had even played a competitive match for Newcastle.
Understandably, many fans have been frustrated by the timing, as the club had placed so much faith in him as part of their attacking rebuild.
But seeing his determination to stay and fight for the badge is a refreshing and reassuring sign of his character.
Newcastle have been cautious with injuries this season, adopting a long-term view with key players rather than rushing them back into action. Wissa’s case is no different.
Both he and the club’s medical staff reportedly agreed that injections could have shortened his recovery time, but they chose to take the safer path to ensure full rehabilitation.
This approach reflects the club’s broader philosophy emphasizing sustainability, fitness, and consistency over short-term gains that might cause bigger issues later.
For Wissa, the desire to stay in England and help his club through a crucial stretch of fixtures is also a show of gratitude.
After all, Newcastle took a significant leap of faith in signing him, trusting his talent, work rate, and versatility to make an impact in a side that continues to evolve under Howe.
His quick adaptation before the injury and his growing chemistry with teammates left fans excited about what’s to come. The idea that he’s choosing to put club duty ahead of international aspirations at least for now will only strengthen his bond with the Newcastle faithful.
Of course, whether Wissa will ultimately join DR Congo for the AFCON later this year remains to be seen. National team duty holds deep personal and cultural significance, and no player takes that responsibility lightly.
However, given that his injury occurred while representing his country, and considering the careful attention Newcastle have given his recovery, most supporters would understand if he opted to remain in England to ensure he’s fully fit for the Premier League run-in.
The injury setback has been frustrating, but there’s optimism that the timing could work in Newcastle’s favor. If Wissa returns in about a month as planned, he could provide a vital boost heading into the festive period a time when squad depth and attacking options are crucial.
His pace, pressing, and movement off the ball were exactly what Howe wanted to add to his forward line, and his return could reignite the team’s attacking rhythm.
In the end, Keith Downie’s update serves as a reminder to stay grounded amid social media speculation. Wissa’s situation isn’t nearly as dire as some feared.
There’s no ACL damage, no season-ending blow just a measured approach to recovery and a player who’s eager to give back to the club that believed in him.
Newcastle fans can breathe easier knowing their new signing is on the mend and focused on contributing sooner rather than later. If all goes to plan, St James’ Park could soon be welcoming back one of its most anticipated summer additions, ready to show exactly why he was brought in to wear the black and white.
