Cyriel Dessers thigh surgery rules him out for rest of season

Cyriel Dessers will play no further part this season after undergoing surgery on a thigh injury sustained during the Africa Cup of Nations, dealing a blow to Panathinaikos’ attack.

The Nigerian forward suffered the setback shortly before Nigeria’s final group-stage match, with medical assessments confirming a rupture involving a tendon connected to the rectus femoris in his right leg.

Surgery ends recovery hopes

Initially, Panathinaikos’ medical team opted for a conservative rehabilitation plan, aiming to avoid surgery and fast-track Dessers’ return before the end of the campaign.

Early signs were encouraging, with the striker progressing through recovery.

 

However, complications emerged when he resumed high-intensity training in March and reported fresh discomfort. Further examinations confirmed incomplete healing, forcing a change in approach.

Surgery was subsequently carried out abroad, effectively ruling the 29-year-old out for the remainder of the season.

Focus shifts to next campaign

With the procedure completed successfully, Panathinaikos have shifted focus to a structured rehabilitation programme.

The club’s medical staff will oversee his recovery to ensure full fitness ahead of the next campaign.

A return to training is tentatively scheduled for early July, aligning with pre-season preparations for the 2026/2027 season.

Timing a setback for Panathinaikos

Dessers’ absence comes at a critical stage of the season, with the Greek side losing a player who had begun to show signs of form.

Prior to the injury, he had registered two goals and one assist in five league appearances.