Asante Kotoko’s Sudanese left-back, Esmat Abdulhamid Mohamed, is facing a long spell on the sidelines after picking up a serious foot injury in a friendly match against Young Apostles in Obuasi. The 24-year-old defender, who joined the Porcupine Warriors ahead of the 2023/2024 season, sustained the injury during a tough encounter, resulting in an early exit from the game.
After a thorough medical examination, it was confirmed that Esmat would require surgery to address the damage. The procedure is expected to take place in the coming days, and he is anticipated to miss a significant portion of the current season.
This is a major setback for Asante Kotoko, as Esmat had quickly established himself as a key figure in their defensive setup. His pace, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute in attack made him an integral part of the team’s plans under new head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum.
The club’s medical team will monitor Esmat’s recovery process post-surgery, but the initial prognosis suggests he could be out for several months. This means Asante Kotoko will have to rely on their defensive depth to fill the gap left by the Sudanese international.
Fans of Asante Kotoko will be hoping for a swift and successful recovery for Esmat, but his absence will undoubtedly be felt as the team pushes for success in the Ghana Premier League and other competitions.
In the meantime, the club is expected to explore alternative options to bolster their defense, either from within the squad or through potential signings, as they navigate through a challenging season without one of their key players.