Switzerland have been dealt a major blow as Johan Manzambi will miss their World Cup last 16 match against Colombia on Tuesday evening after picking up a knee injury in training. The 20-year-old has been one of the tournament's standout performers, scoring three goals and providing two assists to help his country reach the knockout stages. However, he will not feature in Vancouver and his participation in the rest of the World Cup is in doubt if Switzerland progress.
Injury Details and Confirmation
Swiss Football Association (SFV) media director Adrian Arnold confirmed that Manzambi, along with teammates Djibril Sow and Ruben Vargas, had to cut their training session short on Sunday. Switzerland manager Murat Yakin described the potential absence of all three as a 'huge loss' for the team facing Nestor Lorenzo's side at BC Place Stadium.
According to Swiss publication Blick, an MRI scan did not reveal a serious injury that could jeopardise a summer transfer. However, it remains unclear whether Manzambi will be fit enough to feature in another World Cup match. The injury occurred during a five-a-side training match with no contact from another player.
Newcastle United Transfer Plans
Newcastle United are determined to sign Manzambi this summer and are leading the race to acquire him from Freiburg. The 20-year-old enjoyed an excellent club season, scoring seven goals and providing nine assists, helping his side reach the Europa League final and qualify for European football again.
It had been reported that Manzambi wanted to delay discussions about his future until after the World Cup, but his performances in North America could attract other clubs. Nevertheless, Newcastle are set to open talks with Freiburg in the coming days and are confident of striking a deal, with the player keen on the opportunity at St James' Park.
Newcastle's Youth Recruitment Drive
The Magpies have monitored Manzambi since his days at Servette's youth academy and have tracked his progress at Freiburg. His arrival would be another top youngster acquired by sporting director Ross Wilson in this summer transfer window. Newcastle have already signed 20-year-old winger Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim and 20-year-old goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Stade Reims, and are close to securing 18-year-old midfielder Sean Steur from Ajax.
United are making moves in the transfer market after selling Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali to Barcelona and Tottenham respectively for a combined £169 million. They are also expected to sign another new goalkeeper, a full-back, and potentially a new forward as Eddie Howe prepares for the club's reset when pre-season training begins in six days.
