ACL Setback for Jordan’s Yazan Al-Naimat: Doha Surgery Ahead of World Cup 2026
14 December 2025
ACL Surgery Date Set for Jordan’s Yazan Al-Naimat in Doha
The Jordanian national team’s medical staff have scheduled Yazan Al-Naimat’s ACL operation in Doha, Qatar. The forward, who plies his trade with Al-Arabi in Qatar, sustained an anterior cruciate ligament tear during the Arab Cup quarterfinals in 2025, raising concerns about his participation in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
An official Jordan Football Association statement confirmed the ACL tear after further scans, with coach Jamal Al-Salami noting the latest tests corroborated the same injury. The federation coordinated with Al-Arabi to proceed with the surgery on the upcoming Wednesday in Doha, under the supervision of one of the world’s leading ACL specialists.
After the operation, Al-Naimat will begin rehabilitation at Aspetar in Doha, aiming to be fit for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers scheduled for June. The medical plan emphasizes careful, staged recovery to maximize the chances of a timely return.
Jordan had reached the Arab Cup semifinals by beating Iraq 1-0, and will face Saudi Arabia in the next round in Doha. The setback does not erase the team’s momentum, but it does cast a shadow over the calendar as the knockout stage approaches.
In closing notes from the camp, the Jordanian federation underscored the need for measured training and readiness to prevent further setbacks. If the recovery stays on track, Al-Naimat could rejoin the squad in time for crucial fixtures in the months ahead.
Punchline time: If knees could talk, Al-Naimat’s would tell defenders, “I’ve still got a few surprises left up my sleeve—mostly in the form of ACL.”
Punchline 2: Recovery is a bit like a cliffhanger—the knee keeps you guessing, but you’re hopeful the sequel lands with a full comeback.
