Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu has made his first start in 285 days, playing 60 minutes in AS Monaco’s 2-1 away victory over CSKA Sofia in a welcome boost for club and country.
The centre-back’s return to competitive action marks a significant milestone following a lengthy spell away from the starting line-up and raises hopes that he can gradually regain the form and fitness needed to strengthen Ghana’s defence.
Salisu delivered an encouraging performance, recording seven clearances and two recoveries, while also registering a shot and preventing opponents from dribbling past him during his time on the pitch.
Although the appearance does not confirm that he has fully recovered his previous level, the statistics provide positive indications of his contribution as he begins the next stage of his comeback.
His availability is particularly important for Ghana, who will need experienced defensive options as they prepare for their forthcoming international assignments. However, the defender is likely to require further playing time before his readiness for demanding international matches can be confidently assessed.
For Monaco, Salisu’s return provides another option in central defence and gives the coaching staff greater flexibility when selecting their defensive partnerships.
A lengthy campaign can place considerable pressure on defenders, particularly when teams face domestic and European commitments. Having an additional experienced centre-back available can help ease that burden and provide alternatives when injuries, suspensions or fixture congestion affect team selection.
Salisu’s physical attributes are among the qualities that could make him a valuable addition to Monaco’s defensive resources. His strength and aerial ability can help the team deal with crosses, long balls and set-piece situations, while his understanding of defensive positioning can contribute to limiting opposition attacks.
His seven clearances against CSKA Sofia suggest he was actively involved in dealing with threats around the penalty area. The fact that he was not dribbled past also offers encouragement, indicating that he handled direct challenges effectively during his 60 minutes on the field.
The defender’s two recoveries further demonstrate his involvement in regaining possession. Modern centre-backs are expected to anticipate passes, respond to loose balls and help their teams regain control, rather than relying solely on clearing danger.
Salisu also recorded a shot, providing an attacking contribution in addition to his defensive duties. His presence could offer Monaco another option during corners and other set pieces, where his height, timing and strength may be useful.
Despite the promising signs, Monaco will need to exercise caution in managing his return. After 285 days without a start, he cannot immediately be expected to cope with the demands of playing full matches regularly.
A gradual increase in his minutes will be important as he rebuilds his match fitness and adjusts to the intensity of competitive football. His progress over the coming weeks, rather than a single appearance, will provide a clearer indication of how successfully he has recovered.
For Ghana, the defender’s comeback offers a potential solution to one of the key considerations facing the national team: maintaining consistency and depth in central defence.
Salisu’s experience in European football could prove valuable to the Black Stars. Competing at a high level exposes players to different attacking approaches, tactical systems and intense match situations, experiences that can help defenders develop their composure and understanding of the game.
His physical presence could also benefit Ghana when facing opponents who rely on powerful forwards, aerial duels and quick transitions. When fully fit, Salisu has the potential to combine strength, defensive awareness and recovery ability in the heart of the defence.
His return would also give the national team’s technical staff another option when assessing possible defensive partnerships. Selecting centre-backs involves more than identifying individual quality, as coaches must consider how players complement one another and respond to different tactical demands.
There could also be a psychological benefit to his return. A prolonged absence can interrupt a player’s rhythm and confidence, making the transition back to regular football a significant challenge. Starting again after such a lengthy period provides Salisu with an opportunity to build momentum and approach the remainder of his recovery with renewed confidence.
For Ghanaian supporters, the performance offers grounds for optimism, although expectations will need to remain measured. His contribution to the Black Stars will depend on maintaining fitness, securing regular playing time and producing consistent performances.
The timing of his return could become significant as Ghana approach their next competitive assignments. International matches can be particularly demanding for players who have not regained full match sharpness, making further appearances and assessments important before Salisu’s readiness can be established.
Ultimately, his performance against CSKA Sofia represents a promising step rather than the completion of his recovery. Continued progress in training, carefully managed playing time and the ability to withstand the demands of competitive football will determine how quickly he can return to his best.
For now, Salisu’s comeback restores a potentially important defensive option for both Monaco and Ghana. His 60-minute appearance, seven clearances and two recoveries provide encouraging early signs as the centre-back works towards full fitness.
