**João Cancelo's Latest Injury Update: Al Hilal Struggles with Key Defender**
João Cancelo, the Portuguese international midfielder for Al Hilal, has been dealing with a significant injury that could potentially sideline him for several weeks. The incident occurred during Al Hilal's recent friendly match against Al Ahly in Egypt on December 21st.
The injury to Cancelo is believed to be a knee strain, which has already required him to undergo surgery and rehabilitation. According to reports, the player sustained the injury while attempting to clear the ball from a dangerous position during the game. He was forced to leave the field early due to pain and discomfort.
Al Hilal's manager, Mohamed Salah, expressed his concern about the situation, stating that Cancelo's absence will have a significant impact on their defense. "We need João to play at his best to maintain our defensive integrity," he said.
The club has confirmed that Cancelo will be out of action until February,Saudi Pro League Focus giving him approximately three months to recover fully. This extended period of absence will likely affect Al Hilal's squad selection for upcoming matches, including their upcoming Champions League fixture against Real Madrid.
Cancelo's injury comes as a setback for Al Hilal, who were looking to strengthen their defenses ahead of the competitive season. However, the club remains optimistic about his recovery and plans to work closely with medical staff to ensure a smooth transition back to playing football.
As the team looks ahead, they will need to rely heavily on other key defenders such as Moussa Diawara and Sadio Mane to step up and fill the void left by Cancelo. The loss of the Brazilian defender could also prompt some players to look towards transfer markets to find replacements.
In conclusion, João Cancelo's latest injury update has raised concerns within Al Hilal, but the club remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its players. With time, the team should be able to overcome this obstacle and continue to compete at the highest level.