Ghana midfielder Abu Francis has made his long-awaited return to competitive football after spending eight months on the sidelines with a serious leg injury.
The 25-year-old featured in the second half of Toulouse’s pre-season friendly victory over Rodez, marking his first appearance since suffering a devastating double fracture to his tibia and fibula while representing Ghana in November 2025.
Francis entered the match after halftime and completed the full 45 minutes in his preferred defensive midfield role alongside Mario Sauer. Although he understandably showed signs of rust after 253 days away from competitive football, his return was viewed as a major positive for both the player and the club.
The injury occurred during Ghana’s international friendly against Japan on November 14, 2025, when Francis attempted to block a shot from Ao Tanaka. The challenge resulted in a horrific double fracture that left his foot twisted backwards, forcing him to undergo emergency surgery in Japan.
After months of rehabilitation, Francis has finally returned to the pitch, providing a significant boost for Toulouse ahead of the new campaign. Head coach Jens Berthel Askou was encouraged by the midfielder’s performance as he continues his journey back to full match fitness.
Although Francis was recalled to the Toulouse squad towards the end of last season, he remained an unused substitute in league fixtures against Lyon and Nantes. The friendly against Rodez was his first real opportunity to test his recovery under match conditions.
Having joined Toulouse from Cercle Brugge for a reported €2 million in the summer of 2025, the Ghana international is now viewed almost like a new signing after injuries prevented him from showcasing his abilities during his debut season.
The unfortunate setback also ruled Francis out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a major disappointment for both the midfielder and Ghana.
