Tragic setback for Matajo, the player who had the world's sympathy, just 10 minutes into his comeback match after 410 days: another ACL tear...

*This content was translated by AI.

As a player who barely managed to return to action after more than a year of rehabilitation collapsed again due to another injury just 10 minutes into the match, the global football community is unable to hide its sorrow.

Spanish outlet Sport reported on the 30th (Korean time), "Elliott Matajo (24), who plays for Hull City (England), faced another tragedy in his comeback match after about 400 days. Having suffered a tear of the left knee's anterior cruciate ligament, he now has a tear in the ACL of his opposite knee, the right one." This news was subsequently reported by other international outlets including the UK's public broadcaster BBC, Spain's Mundo Deportivo, and Japan's The World.

Matajo, a 2002-born midfielder from Belgium Yeon Ryeong-byeol (CEO), made his professional debut with AS Monaco, went on loan to Royal Antwerp, and joined Hull City in 2025, moving to the English Championship (second division). However, in February last year, he suffered a tear of his left anterior cruciate ligament during a match against Cardiff City, forcing him out of action and dedicating more than a year solely to rehabilitation.

After a long rehabilitation period, he first rejoined the team in early last month, gradually regaining his form, and started in the 45th round of the Championship match against Charlton Athletic on the 25th, playing a touching comeback match. It was his first appearance in 410 days.

However, his comeback match turned into a "nightmare" just 10 minutes in. He complained of pain during play and requested to be substituted, leaving the field. Subsequent detailed examinations confirmed a diagnosis of an anterior cruciate ligament tear. It was not the left knee, which he had rehabilitated for over a year, but this time the right knee.

Sport stated, "Matajo's harsh story has shaken the English football world. He had not played for over 400 days and played his comeback match last weekend. Given the long rehabilitation, it seemed destined to be a special day. However, Matajo's return ended in a nightmare as he was substituted due to injury just 10 minutes in," expressing deep sorrow.

Matajo wrote on his personal social media (SNS), "I don't know what to say. I can't understand it," while also adding, "Since I overcame this injury once, I believe I can do it again. I am grateful to everyone who offered their support and prayers." Teammates and fans are encouraging him with comments and emojis wishing for his speedy recovery.

Hull City, Matajo's club, stated, "We have confirmed that Matajo has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee. This is 14 months after he was injured in his left knee during a match against Cardiff City last February. All members of the club wish for Matajo's speedy recovery. We will provide full support throughout his entire rehabilitation process."

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*This content was translated by AI.