Islam Issa, the Egypt national football team winger and Ceramica Cleopatra player, has undergone cruciate ligament surgery in Germany, an operation that is expected to sideline him for an extended period and rule him out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The procedure took place on Thursday, according to an official update from the Egyptian Football Association, which confirmed that the injury required surgical intervention following earlier medical assessments.
Injury sustained during international duty
Issa’s injury occurred during Egypt’s friendly match against Spain national football team in March, after a challenge involving Fermín López. The winger was forced off the pitch after 68 minutes, having started the match.
Earlier in the international break, Issa had featured prominently in a friendly against Saudi Arabia national football team, where he played 58 minutes and scored the opening goal, underlining his importance to the squad at the time.
Medical coordination and support
The Egyptian FA confirmed that it will cover the full cost of the player’s surgery and treatment, signalling institutional support during his rehabilitation period.
National team head coach Hossam Hassan and team manager Ibrahim Hassan have both checked on Issa’s condition following the procedure.
Further medical oversight has been provided through coordination between national team doctor Mohamed Abou El-Ela and Ceramica Cleopatra’s medical staff, led by Farid Radwan, who accompanied the player to Germany.
The surgery was carried out under the supervision of German specialist Christian Brall, with ongoing updates being shared between club and national team medical teams.
Long-term absence confirmed
The nature of the injury means Issa will miss a significant period of competitive action, including Egypt’s campaign at the 2026 World Cup. His absence represents a setback for the national side, given his recent involvement and attacking contributions.
Egypt have been drawn in Group G of the tournament, where they are set to face Iran national football team, Belgium national football team and New Zealand national football team.
Impact on squad planning
Issa’s injury is likely to influence selection decisions as the coaching staff prepare for upcoming international fixtures. His performances during the March friendlies had positioned him as a regular option in the squad, particularly after his goal against Saudi Arabia.
Focus shifts to recovery
Attention will now turn to Issa’s rehabilitation process, which is expected to take several months following cruciate ligament surgery. The coordinated involvement of both club and national team medical teams reflects the importance placed on ensuring a successful recovery.
While his immediate absence is a blow for both club and country, officials will hope that the structured medical support and early intervention will allow the winger to return to competitive football in the future.
