The Algerian international star Youssef Belaïli has begun the recovery phase from the serious injury he sustained to his anterior cruciate ligament during his participation with his club, Espérance Sportive de Tunis.

According to press reports, medical examinations that Belaïli underwent revealed a complete tear of the ACL, which will keep him off the field until the end of the season and put an end to his participation with Espérance in the remaining competitions.

This prolonged absence will prevent the player from appearing in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations scheduled in Morocco, and he will also miss the 2026 World Cup finals to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The injury occurred during the Tunisian derby between Espérance and Club Africain, where Belaïli sustained a severe injury that forced him to leave the field, before medical examinations confirmed the extent of the damage to the ACL.

The absence of Youssef Belaïli is a significant loss for his club Espérance and the Algerian national team, given the technical value and experience the player brings to major matches.