The 15 Most Worst Injuries in Football History

Betimate presents a captivating exploration of the 15 most severe injuries in the history of football. Delving into the incidents, Betimate examines the circumstances surrounding each injury, the immediate consequences for the player, and their subsequent recovery journeys, if applicable. From seasoned veterans to promising newcomers, these injuries have left a lasting impact on the players' careers. Join Betimate for an in-depth analysis of these unfortunate events and their aftermath.

Eduardo

Arsenal vs Birmingham City (2008)

In 2008, Eduardo da Silva, playing for Arsenal against Birmingham City, endured a horrific leg fracture. A mistimed tackle from Martin Taylor resulted in a broken left fibula and a dislocated ankle, forcing Eduardo to the sidelines just a few months after joining the Gunners.

The injury had a significant impact on Eduardo's career, keeping him out of action for an extended period. Although he made a return to the field in February 2009, the Croatian striker was never able to fully regain his previous form, disappointing Arsenal fans worldwide. Eduardo later went on to have a moderately successful stint with Shakhtar Donetsk before ultimately retiring from professional football in 2018.

David Busst

Coventry City vs Manchester United (1996)

David Busst's injury during a game in 1996 stands as one of the most horrific in football history. While playing for Coventry City, Busst collided with Manchester United players during a corner, resulting in compound fractures to both his tibia and fibula in his right leg. The injuries were so severe that there were concerns about the potential need for amputation.

Busst faced a long and challenging recovery process, undergoing multiple surgeries to repair the damage. Unfortunately, despite his determination, the injuries ultimately forced him into retirement. Following the end of his playing career, Busst has been involved with Coventry City's community program, using his experiences to make a positive impact off the field. However, the severity of his injuries prevented him from ever returning to the beautiful game as a player.

Luc Nilis

Aston Villa vs Ipswich Town (2000)

Luc Nilis, during his time at Aston Villa, experienced a devastating end to his career when a collision with Ipswich goalkeeper Richard Wright resulted in a compound fracture in his right leg. Nilis had recently joined Aston Villa and had made a promising start, scoring one goal in his first two games. However, his third appearance for the club ended tragically with the horrific leg injury.

Following the injury, Nilis underwent extensive surgery and rehabilitation. There were serious concerns about his leg, with fears that it may have needed amputation due to an infection. Fortunately, the situation did not escalate to that extreme, but the injury still forced Nilis into early retirement from professional football. He later transitioned into a coaching role at PSV Eindhoven, continuing his involvement in the game he loved.

Henrik Larsson

Celtic vs Lyon (1999)

Henrik Larsson, one of Sweden's greatest footballers, endured a severe injury while playing for Celtic. During a UEFA Cup match against Lyon in 1999, Larsson broke his leg in two places, causing significant damage.

After an eight-month recovery period, Larsson made a stunning return to the game, defying all odds and regaining his previous form. He went on to achieve numerous accolades, including winning the Golden Boot. Larsson's career took a further leap when he made a high-profile move to Barcelona. There, he played a pivotal role in the 2006 Champions League final against Arsenal, helping his team secure the prestigious title. Later, Larsson had a short stint with Manchester United in the Premier League. Despite his achievements, the memory of his horrific injury in 1999 remains a testament to his strength and determination.

Djibril Cisse

Liverpool vs Blackburn Rovers (2004)

Djibril Cisse, throughout his career, had to endure two devastating leg breaks that occurred just two years apart. The first occurred while playing for Liverpool in 2004, resulting in a seven-month absence from the game. The second leg break happened during a World Cup warm-up match in 2006 and was potentially even more severe.

During a match against China, representing the French national team, Cisse was stretchered off the field after a collision that caused his right leg to twist under him. The incident occurred while he was chasing the ball down the right flank and being knocked off balance by a defender. Despite these setbacks, Cisse's resilience allowed him to continue playing for various clubs. However, he was never able to reach the same level of performance as before the injuries. Despite the challenges, Cisse's determination and perseverance allowed him to continue his football career.

Alf-Inge Haaland

Manchester City vs Manchester United (2001)

A notorious and reckless challenge from Roy Keane resulted in a knee injury for Alf-Inge Haaland, the father of Manchester City star Erling Haaland. The severity of the injury forced Haaland into retirement. The tackle sparked controversy and became infamous in football circles.

In his autobiography, Keane admitted that he had been waiting for an opportunity to retaliate against Haaland after their confrontations in previous matches. The animosity between the two stemmed from an incident in 1997 when Haaland stood over Keane, accusing him of feigning injury after a clash. In reality, Keane had suffered a ruptured cruciate ligament.

Following the injury, Haaland struggled with his own physical issues and was only able to play a few more matches before ultimately retiring in 2003. The incident between Keane and Haaland left a lasting impact on both players' careers and became a notable chapter in football history.

Alan Smith

Manchester United vs Liverpool (2006)

Alan Smith, a former Manchester United talent, experienced a significant setback in his career when he suffered a broken leg and dislocated ankle while blocking a free-kick from John Arne Riise during an FA Cup match against Liverpool. The injury forced Smith out of action for a year, and upon his return, he struggled to reach his previous levels of performance. Consequently, he played for several clubs before eventually retiring.

Smith's decline was disheartening considering the potential he had shown earlier in his career. Following his high-profile move from Leeds United to Manchester United, he was highly regarded and tipped for success. In fact, just a week before the transfer deadline in the summer of 2005, Sir Alex Ferguson spoke highly of Smith, comparing his characteristics to those of a young Roy Keane and expressing belief in his potential development.

Unfortunately, Smith's devastating injury prevented him from fulfilling his promising potential, and his career took a different trajectory than initially anticipated.

Patrick Battiston

France vs Germany (1982)

The 1982 World Cup semi-final witnessed a brutal collision between Patrick Battiston and German goalkeeper Harald Schumacher. Battiston was put through on goal and managed to get his shot away before Schumacher's body collided with his face, resulting in broken teeth, ribs, and damaged vertebrae.

The impact of the collision caused Battiston to fall to the ground unconscious, and he even slipped into a coma. His teammate, Michel Platini, initially feared the worst, believing Battiston to be dead due to his pale appearance and lack of pulse. However, Battiston made a remarkable recovery.

Following his recovery, Battiston continued his international and club career. He achieved success with Bordeaux, winning several league titles. Battiston's resilience and determination to return to the game after such a traumatic incident are truly remarkable.

Radamel Falcao

AS Monaco vs Monts d'Or Azergues (2014)

Radamel Falcao suffered a torn ACL in a French Cup game, which forced him to miss the 2014 World Cup and sidelined him for several months. Although he eventually returned to play, the injury had a significant impact on his performance and hindered his ability to regain his elite status.

Falcao had built a reputation as a formidable striker during his time with Porto and Atletico Madrid in the late 2000s and early 2010s. His goal-scoring prowess caught the attention of big-spending AS Monaco, where he made a high-profile move. However, just months after joining Monaco, he suffered the ACL injury.

Following his recovery, Falcao had a loan spell at Manchester United before returning to Monaco. He had some notable moments during his time at the French club, including helping the team reach the Champions League semi-finals in 2017 alongside a young Kylian Mbappe. However, despite these highlights, Falcao struggled to fully regain his previous form.

Neymar

Brazil vs Colombia (2014)

One of the most heartbreaking injuries in recent memory occurred during the 2014 World Cup. Neymar, the star player for Brazil, suffered a fractured vertebra in a challenge from Colombia's Juan Camilo Zúñiga.

Neymar's injury was especially devastating considering the context of the tournament. The World Cup was being hosted in Brazil, and he was the focal point of the national team. The anticipation and excitement surrounding Neymar's performance were immense, and he was expected to guide Brazil to success on home soil. The atmosphere in the stadiums, with a sea of yellow and the deafening support for Neymar, was a sight to behold.

Unfortunately, the injury abruptly ended Neymar's World Cup campaign, leaving him unable to fulfill his potential and contribute to Brazil's success. The injury had a profound impact on the nation, as Brazil subsequently suffered a crushing 7-1 defeat to Germany in the semi-finals, further compounding the heartbreak for the entire nation.

Aaron Ramsey

Arsenal vs Stoke City (2010)

One of the most infamous and heartbreaking injuries involving an Arsenal player is the tackle by Ryan Shawcross that resulted in Aaron Ramsey suffering a broken leg in 2010. At the time, Ramsey had recently joined Arsenal from Cardiff and was starting to display his potential and the reasons why Arsene Wenger had signed him.

The Premier League fixture against Stoke City was already known for its physicality, and the challenge from Shawcross left a lasting impact. Ramsey had to undergo a lengthy recovery period of nine months before returning to the football field. Despite the setback early in his career, Ramsey showed remarkable resilience and went on to become a key player for both Arsenal and the Welsh national team.

Ramsey's time at Arsenal included notable achievements such as winning multiple FA Cup trophies, including scoring the winning goals against Hull City and Chelsea in the finals. However, there is still a lingering sense of what could have been had Ramsey not suffered the leg break. Despite the setback, Ramsey's legacy at Arsenal remains impressive, but it is hard to ignore the potential that may have been even greater without the injury.

Luke Shaw

Manchester United vs PSV (2015)

Luke Shaw's transfer to Manchester United from Southampton came with high expectations, as he was considered a key figure for the club's defense for years to come. He had already shown great promise during his early career with Southampton, leading to United's decision to sign him in a big-money deal to secure his services ahead of potential competition.

However, Shaw's progress at Manchester United was significantly hampered by a double leg fracture suffered during a Champions League match against PSV in 2015. The injury dealt a major blow to both the player and the club.

After an arduous 11-month recovery period, Shaw made his return to the pitch. He gradually regained his form and became an integral part of United's defensive lineup. However, injuries have continued to plague Shaw throughout his time at the club, leading to intermittent periods on the sidelines.

Despite the setbacks, Shaw has showcased his talent and resilience, proving himself as a valuable asset when fit. However, the injuries have undoubtedly affected his progress and potential impact at Manchester United.

Kieron Dyer

West Ham United vs Bristol Rovers (2007)

Kieron Dyer, known for his infamous clash with teammate Lee Bowyer while at Newcastle, experienced a devastating moment later in his career. During a League Cup match between West Ham and Bristol Rovers, Dyer suffered a double fracture in his right leg in an accidental collision with Joe Jacobson.

The injury, which occurred in 2007, had a profound impact on Dyer's career. Despite making a recovery, he was unable to reach the same heights he had previously enjoyed. The incident significantly hampered his progress and limited his potential for further success.

Dyer's career trajectory was undoubtedly affected by the injury, and he was unable to replicate his earlier performances. The unfortunate incident remains a significant moment in Dyer's footballing journey, overshadowing some of his previous achievements.

Roberto Baggio

Brescia vs Parma (2002)

Roberto Baggio, known for his iconic mullet hairstyle, was a legendary Italian player during the late 20th century. He had an illustrious international career with the Italian national team that spanned an impressive 16 years, from 1988 to 2004. However, it was towards the end of his playing days that Baggio faced his most devastating setback.

In 2002, Baggio suffered a torn ACL, a significant blow that sidelined him for several months. Despite the injury, Baggio displayed incredible resilience and made a successful return to action. He even went on to deliver some of the finest performances of his career while playing for Brescia. During this time, he achieved consecutive seasons of double-digit goals in Serie A, showcasing his exceptional talent and skill as an Italian playmaker.

Baggio's ability to bounce back from such a setback and perform at a high level demonstrated his determination and love for the game. His successful comeback after the ACL injury is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of Italy's greatest footballers.

Marcin Wasilewski

Anderlecht vs Standard Liege (2009)

In a match between Standard Liege and Anderlecht in the Belgian Pro League in 2009, Marcin Wasilewski suffered a horrific injury due to a tackle from Axel Witsel. The impact of the tackle resulted in Wasilewski suffering a broken leg and ankle. He required corrective surgery for open fractures to both the tibia and fibula.

Following the incident, Witsel faced consequences for his actions and was suspended by the Belgian FA for eight games after an appeal. Meanwhile, Wasilewski underwent intensive treatment and rehabilitation to recover from his severe injuries.

Remarkably, Wasilewski made a remarkable recovery and continued his football career at Leicester City. His journey with the club reached its pinnacle when, under the management of Claudio Ranieri, Leicester City achieved the unimaginable by winning the Premier League title in the 2015-2016 season. Wasilewski's involvement in this historic triumph stands as one of the greatest sporting achievements in history.

Despite the adversity he faced due to the injury inflicted by Witsel, Wasilewski's resilience and determination allowed him to overcome the setback and contribute to a remarkable footballing success. His story serves as an inspiration to athletes and fans alike.