TP Mazembe’s Nigerian goalkeeper, Suleman Shaibu, has successfully undergone surgery in Dakar, Senegal, following a health issue that forced him to pause his on-field duties. The 28-year-old, who had recently been seen playing as a striker due to tactical adjustments by the club, is now focusing fully on recovery, with hopes of returning to competitive action in the coming months.
The Congolese club confirmed the operation in an official statement, explaining that Shaibu underwent surgery on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the Clinique du Cap in Dakar. The procedure addressed a right knee injury, a condition that had been affecting his performance in recent months.
TP Mazembe revealed that the goalkeeper would remain in Senegal until the end of April for post-operative care, rehabilitation, and physical conditioning before returning to Lubumbashi.
TP Mazembe efforts
“Rehabilitation for this type of injury typically takes several weeks, encompassing both healing and physical conditioning. However, current progress suggests the player will return as soon as possible,” the club’s statement read. TP Mazembe also emphasized its full support for Shaibu during this period, sending their best wishes for a speedy recovery and expressing hope to see him back in goal soon.
Suleman Shaibu’s versatility has drawn attention recently, as he occasionally appeared in outfield positions due to Mazembe’s tactical experiments. This adaptability highlights his technical skill and athleticism, which have long been valuable assets for one of Africa’s most storied clubs.
Mazembe, one of the continent’s most successful football teams, has a rich history on both domestic and international stages. The Lubumbashi-based side became the first African club and the first outside Europe and South America to play in a FIFA Club World Cup final, finishing runners-up to Inter Milan in the 2010 edition with a 3-0 defeat. The club continues to compete at the highest levels of African football, and Shaibu’s presence in goal is seen as vital to their ambitions in domestic and continental competitions.
Suleman Shaibu sucess
Fans of TP Mazembe have rallied around Shaibu, flooding social media with messages of support and encouragement. The Nigerian international’s return is eagerly awaited, as he remains a key figure in Mazembe’s squad both for his shot-stopping abilities and his leadership on the field.
With proper rehabilitation, Shaibu is expected to regain full match fitness and contribute significantly to Mazembe’s campaigns in the Congolese league and the CAF Champions League. For now, the club, fans, and player alike remain focused on recovery and preparation for a strong return in the months ahead.
