Ernest Nuamah returns from ACL Injury after 391 days in Lyon victory

Ernest Nuamah made a long-awaited return to action on Sunday, featuring in Olympique Lyonnais’ 4-2 victory over Rennes in the French Ligue 1.

The 22-year-old winger had been sidelined since April 5, 2025, after suffering a serious ACL injury that kept him out for over a year. After 391 days and missing 54 matches, Nuamah finally stepped back onto the pitch, coming on as a second-half substitute to play the final six minutes at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais.

His return marks a significant moment in his young career, ending a difficult period of recovery and rehabilitation. Despite the limited minutes, the Ghanaian showed encouraging signs as Lyon secured all three points in an entertaining encounter.

Nuamah’s comeback is timely for Ghana as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The former FC Nordsjælland star played an important role during Ghana’s qualification campaign before his injury setback.

With uncertainty surrounding the fitness of Mohammed Kudus, Nuamah’s return offers a major boost to the Black Stars’ attacking options. Head coach Carlos Queiroz will be encouraged by the winger’s progress as he looks to rebuild match sharpness ahead of the global tournament.

Nuamah is now expected to gradually regain full fitness and could play a key role for Lyon in the upcoming season, as well as for Ghana on the international stage.