Kouassi Suffers Torn ACL; Out 6-9 Months
- Updated: February 8, 2016
Photo credit: Nick Soland – Keystone
Barely a week after the Revolution unveiled him as their newest designated player signing, FC Sion central midfielder Xavier Kouassi suffered a torn ACL on Sunday that will keep him sidelined for up to nine months.
Kouassi, who signed a pre-contract with the Revolution last month, suffered the injury around the 57th minute of Sunday’s 1-0 win over FC Zurich. The Sion captain had to be carted off the pitch, and on Monday, it was revealed that Kouassi suffered a torn ACL in his right knee. The estimated recovery time is 6-9 months.
The Ivory Coast international was originally slated to join the Revolution in July, following the expiration of his contract with Sion. But if the prognosis surrounding Kouassi’s knee knock is accurate, it’s possible that he may not suit up for the Revolution before the end of the regular season.
It is unclear if there is an injury provision contained in Kouassi’s pre-contract. It is MLS and club policy to keep contract terms under wraps when a signing is announced.
Last week, Revolution coach Jay Heaps spoke to the media via teleconference about Kouassi’s ability, and what he brings to the table for the local XI.
“He’s a player we’re excited about,” Heaps said. “He’s a player that we spent a lot of time tracking, and he fits the team that we have, he’s strong, a ball-winner, cuts out passing lanes, very quick and will help us in transition.”
Interestingly, Heaps also said that the club wanted to purchase Kouassi’s contract to bring him to Foxboro during the winter transfer window, but was rebuffed by Sion. The Revolution coach said that the Swiss side was unwilling to part with the central midfielder prematurely because of his influence on the team’s current Europa League run.
Prior to Sunday’s match, Kouassi had been sidelined with a back injury that forced him to miss four games earlier in the season. He also missed time due to yellow card accumulation.
The 26-year-old midfielder was expected to replace previous Revolution designated player Jermaine Jones, who was unable to reach a contract extension with the club during the offseason.
Jones remains unsigned, though is reportedly courting interest from Bundesliga side Hannover 96.
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