A medical doctor of the Ghana Black Stars has linked the increasing number of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries among footballers to the increasingly congested football schedule.
Speaking on player welfare and injury prevention, the team doctor explained that the growing demands of modern football — including domestic leagues, continental competitions, and international fixtures — are placing excessive strain on players’ bodies, increasing the risk of serious knee injuries.
“Players are not getting enough recovery time,” the doctor said. “The packed football calendar means continuous high-intensity matches with minimal rest, and this significantly increases the likelihood of ACL injuries.”
According to the Black Stars medical team, ACL injuries have become more common in recent years, often sidelining players for long periods and, in some cases, threatening careers. The doctor noted that fatigue, muscle imbalance, and inadequate recovery are major contributors to such injuries.
He also emphasized the importance of proper load management, preseason conditioning, and adherence to medical advice, especially for players involved in both club and international football.
The doctor further called on football authorities to prioritize player welfare by reviewing match schedules and ensuring adequate rest periods, warning that failure to do so could lead to long-term consequences for players and the quality of the game.
The comments add to ongoing global concerns raised by medical experts, players, and coaches about the physical toll of the modern football calendar and the urgent need for reforms to protect athletes.
