Tiago Santos
LOSC
Undergoes successful knee surgery
Santos underwent successful surgery to repair a complete ACL tear and associated meniscus damage in his right knee, with the Lille defender confirming that he faces a lengthy rehabilitation period, according to Le Petit Lillois.
Analysis: Santos has taken the first step toward recovery after undergoing surgery following the serious knee injury sustained during Lille's 1-0 victory over Le Havre on Oct. 12. The Portuguese right-back was stretchered off in the 17th minute, with subsequent examinations revealing a complete ACL tear and meniscus damage in his right knee. The injury represents another devastating setback for Santos, who previously suffered an ACL tear in his other knee in October 2024. Although the operation was successful, he faces several months of rehabilitation and is unlikely to return before the end of the 2026/27 campaign. Santos had recorded two goals, five chances created, 10 tackles, five interceptions and 17 clearances across six Ligue 1 appearances before his injury. Maxima Goffi, who replaced him against Le Havre, could now see significantly increased playing time on the right side of Lille's defense during his extended absence.
Suffers ACL and meniscus injuries
Santos (knee) suffered a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, along with meniscus damage, during Saturday's 1-0 win over Le Havre and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines, according to the club.
Analysis: Santos was stretchered off in the 17th minute against Le Havre, with subsequent examinations confirming a complete ACL tear and associated meniscus damage. The Portuguese right-back faces a lengthy rehabilitation period and is unlikely to return before the end of the season, marking another major setback after suffering an ACL tear in his other knee in October 2024. He had recorded two goals, five chances created, 10 tackles, five interceptions and 17 clearances across six Ligue 1 appearances this season. Maxima Goffi, who replaced him against Le Havre, could see increased playing time on the right side of Lille's defense during his absence.
Stretchered off with knee injury
Santos was stretchered off in the first half of Saturday's 1-0 win over Le Havre with a knee injury, and coach Davide Ancelotti fears ligament damage, per Le Petit Lillois. "He was very scared, because he's already had this injury to his other knee, which explains the tears as he left the pitch. That sort of movement isn't a pretty sight. Usually, it's the cruciate ligaments"
Analysis: Santos was taken off in tears early in Saturday's game against Le Havre with a knee injury, and coach Davide Ancelotti admitted the movement looked like the type that usually means a cruciate ligament problem. The Portuguese right back has already been through a long layoff after an ACL tear in October 2024 and had looked back to his best since his return. Lille are still awaiting a diagnosis, and a cruciate injury would mean another lengthy spell on the sidelines for one of their most important players. Maxima Goffi replaced him and could be an option on the right side of the defence if Santos faces time out.
Scores opener in victory
Santos scored one goal to go with two shots (one on goal) and one cross (zero accurate) in Sunday's 2-0 victory versus Troyes.
Analysis: Santos gave Lille the lead in the 18th minute, firing a first-time strike without controlling into the top corner from outside the penalty area after a slick triangle down the right flank. He also registered two shots including one on goal and one cross across 90 minutes in a performance that combined attacking incisiveness with the defensive solidity that makes him one of Ligue 1's best right-backs this season. Santos is now fully recovered from his long term knee injury and showing his potential again under new coach Davide Ancelotti.
Nets on Sunday
Santos scored one goal to go with two shots (two on goal) and two crosses (zero accurate) in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Angers.
Analysis: Santos doubled the advantage from close range in the 31st minute. Santos registered two dribbles, made 19 passes and also recorded three tackles, three interceptions and a clearance. This was his first Ligue 1 goal in nearly three years.
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