Japanese midfielder Takumi Minamino has provided a significant and encouraging update on his long road to recovery from a devastating knee injury. The AS Monaco player, who has been sidelined since December, has officially resumed training with a ball, marking a crucial milestone in his rehabilitation process.
The injury occurred during a Coupe de France Round of 32 match against Auxerre on December 21st of last year. Minamino suffered a severe blow to his left knee, an incident that saw him leave the pitch on a stretcher with his face buried in his hands. The following day, the club confirmed the worst fears: a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee, an injury that typically requires a lengthy recovery period of many months.
Since that fateful day, Minamino has been focused entirely on his rehabilitation. His recent social media update, accompanied by the caption "Step by step, steadily!" showed him back on the pitch engaging in dribbling drills and other exercises involving the football. This transition from purely physical therapy to sport-specific work is a critical phase in the comeback from an ACL injury, indicating that his knee is regaining strength and stability.
The timing of his progress is particularly noteworthy given the upcoming international calendar. The Japanese Football Association is scheduled to announce its squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on May 15th. Japan's opening match in the tournament is set for June 14th against the Netherlands. While a return for the World Cup squad announcement itself may be premature, his steady advancement suggests he is targeting a return to full fitness in the medium term.
For his club, AS Monaco, Minamino's absence has been felt. The 29-year-old, who joined from Liverpool, is a versatile and experienced attacking midfielder known for his technical skill and intelligent movement. His ability to play across the forward line provides valuable tactical flexibility. His return would be a major boost for Monaco's ambitions in Ligue 1 and European competition.
From the perspective of the Japanese national team, Minamino is a senior figure and a key component of their attacking machinery. With over 50 caps and a proven record in major tournaments, his experience and quality are irreplaceable. The prospect of having him available for the World Cup, even if not at peak match fitness initially, would be a tremendous asset for head coach Hajime Moriyasu.
The rehabilitation from an ACL tear is notoriously challenging, both physically and mentally. Players must rebuild muscle mass, regain proprioception, and overcome the psychological hurdle of trusting the repaired knee in competitive situations. Minamino's positive messaging and visible progress on the training ground suggest he is navigating this difficult process with determination.
As he continues this "step by step" journey, the football world in Japan and Monaco will be watching closely. Each training session brings him closer to a competitive return. While no specific timeline has been set, the resumption of ball work is a universally positive sign that the final stages of his recovery are underway.
Based on reporting from サッカーキング.