53rd-Minute Muscular Issue Forces Manu Koné Off in Istanbul Draw
AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné suffered a muscular injury during the club’s 1-1 UEFA Champions League draw against Fenerbahce on September 10, 2026. The midfielder requested a substitution in the 53rd minute at the Fenerbahce Şükrü Saracoğlu Spor Kompleksi after experiencing a muscular twinge. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini confirmed the physical setback following the final whistle, with medical scans scheduled to assess the severity of the damage.
Roma Medical Staff Evaluate Manu Koné Following Midfield Muscle Twinge
The physical issue compresses Gian Piero Gasperini’s central midfield options at a critical juncture of the early campaign. Koné had established himself as a fixture in the starting XI, starting all four competitive matches for Roma this season alongside Bryan Cristante. Niccolò Pisilli entered the match as the direct replacement in Istanbul, presenting the primary tactical alternative within the squad.
AS Roma
clubCongested Match Calendar and Nations League Selection Depend on Scan Outcomes
The timing of the muscular setback complicates squad planning across both domestic and European competitions throughout September. In addition to Roma’s upcoming Serie A matchdays and Champions League League Phase schedule, the recovery timeline impacts international duty. Medical clearance will dictate whether Koné can join the France national team squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixture against Italy.
