Ghanaian forward Joseph Paintsil has been dealt a significant blow, suffering a quad injury that will keep him out of action for up to eight weeks. The LA Galaxy player's untimely injury is a major setback for both his club and country, with Paintsil set to miss crucial games for Ghana in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Paintsil's impressive debut season with LA Galaxy, where he scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists in the regular season, has been followed by a frustrating injury. The Ghana wideman's brilliance was rewarded in the MLS Cup final, where his opening goal helped LA Galaxy secure victory.
The injury news comes as a double blow for LA Galaxy, who are already without star midfielder Riqui Puig as they prepare for the upcoming season. Coach Greg Vanney's side will continue their pre-season preparations against Minnesota United in the Coachella Valley Invitational on Wednesday, but Paintsil's absence will be deeply felt.
In terms of his return to action, Paintsil is expected to be out for up to two months, with the earliest possible return date in April. This timeline spells disaster for Ghana, as Paintsil will play no part in the Black Stars' upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying games against Chad and Madagascar.
Paintsil joins a growing list of long-term absentees for Ghana, including Abdul Fatwau Issahaku (ACL), Nathaniel Adjei (ankle injury), and Alidu Seidu (ACL). The Black Stars will be severely depleted as they look to navigate the qualifying stages of the 2026 World Cup.
The loss of Paintsil's pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability will be deeply felt by Ghana, and his absence may prove costly in the qualifying games. With a lengthy recovery period ahead, Paintsil will be focused on regaining full fitness and returning to the pitch as soon as possible.
As the football world wishes Paintsil a speedy recovery, his club and country will be eagerly awaiting his return to action. With a crucial period of games on the horizon, Paintsil's injury could not have come at a worse time.
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