6 Soccer Stars Whose Careers Were Cut Short by Injury
Soccer fans around the world have surely daydreamed about what could have been for certain talented players, had grim fate not intervened in the form of a snapped Achilles tendon or torn ACL. Injury is an occupational hazard in the high-octane world of professional soccer, but for some, its timing and severity robbed the beautiful game - and us, the spectators - of witnessing greatness in its purest form. Here are six soccer stars who never quite reached their full potential due to injuries derailing their upward trajectories.
Angel Di Maria
Already a star at Real Madrid, Di Maria's move to Manchester United was hampered by a thigh injury. While he played when able, he lost form and confidence. By January he was sold, leaving fans to wonder what could have been without the injury setback so early in his United career.
Jack Wilshere
Extremely talented midfield metronome for Arsenal, Wilshere's career has been a frustration of 'what ifs' due to recurrent ankle problems. Now on his 5th club at age 30, his ability was never in doubt when fit - but ongoing fragility prevented him becoming the leader Arsenal hoped.
Marco Asensio
Already an essential part of Spain's midfield by his early 20s, a torn ACL derailed Asensio's rise at Real Madrid. He's regained fitness but lost his unique spark, with form and prospects still stalling due to knee issues. Time will tell if he can recapture past promise.
Memphis Depay
Explosive winger wowed fans at PSV and Lyon but struggled post-ACL tear at Manchester United. While he rebuilt confidence later, glimpses of pre-injury dynamism have been fleeting. At 28, he's yet to fulfill the vaunted potential that once had Europe's elite courting his signature.
Dominic Solanke
Golden boot winner at youth level for England, Solanke's development stalled after ankle and hamstring injuries at Liverpool. Now 24, regular football and confidence have eluded him despite a prolific scoring record for England's youth sides. Injuries may have irrevocably disrupted the momentum of his career progression.
Ruben Semedo
Still just 27, Semedo emerged as a hot prospect in his early 20s at Sporting CP. But recurrent knee issues have prevented him putting together an extended run in a top five league since, stifling his chance to realize his potential. His story is still unfolding.
While some managed to continue their careers to varying extents post-injury, for all six players covered, their athletic primes were cut short just as they were peaking, or before their potential could be fully realized. Injuries are an unfortunate occupational hazard in sport's highest echelons. But for these stars in particular, it's tragic to consider the excellence, accomplishments and joy they could have continued providing fans, had fate not intervened with abruptly ending tendons or cracked bones. Their tales serve as a reminder of the precarious nature of an athlete's physical capital.