André Franco
FCP
Center Midfielder
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Apr 12, 1998 (28)
Left
5'10"
161 lb
Rejoins group
Franco (knee) is back in group training and appears to be nearing a return, according to Joe Chatz of On Tap Sports.
Analysis: Franco has been out since around this time last season due to an ACL injury and has yet to make an appearance this season, a rough timeline for the midfielder. However, he is seeing some more good news, as he has once again joined the group for training. It remains to be seen if he will return to the field soon or at all this season, obviously taking his return from a major injury cautiously.
Remains sidelined
Franco (knee) is out for Wednesday's clash with Philadelphia, per the MLS Injury Report.
Analysis: Franco is nearing a return from a knee injury but remains on the sideline to this point. He might be able to return for a Saturday trip to New England, though a return the following Saturday seems more likely. When fit he's likely to be a depth option.
Nearing return from knee injury
Franco (knee) returned to team training Thursday after being sidelined with a knee injury, putting him in contention for Saturday's MLS clash against New York City FC, according to Alex Calabrese.
Analysis: Franco has taken an important step toward returning to action after being limited to partial training in recent weeks due to his knee injury. The winger missed Tuesday's clash against Vancouver but has now rejoined the group ahead of Saturday's matchup with NYCFC. His participation in training is an encouraging sign, although his availability for the weekend remains uncertain after an extended absence. Even if cleared to feature, Franco could initially be limited to a substitute role as he works toward regaining full match fitness.
Not ready to return
Franco (knee) is out for Tuesday's game against the Whitecaps.
Analysis: Franco has been involved in partial training in recent weeks, but the winger isn't ready to return to action yet. He's still aiming to return before the end of the 2026 MLS season, but this game against the Whitecaps comes too soon for the 28-year-old.
Partially training
Franco (knee) has been practice partially with Chicago. According to head coach Gregg Berhalter, "Andre was able to join the team in partial training on Sunday, and had a real intensive session today. So they're all making progress" per Alex Calabrese of Men in Red 98.
Analysis: Franco receive some positive news from Greg Berhalter, having been able to train partially with Chicago as he inches closer to a return to the pitch. He's been out of action for about a year after tearing his ACL weight last season, only joining the team in August 2025, making five starts in six appearances as well assisting four times in that small timeframe. His return will bring the big boost to Chicago's attack, though it may take him some time to get adjusted following the long absence.
Limited training with ball
Franco (knee) has started to work with the ball while he continues to recover from a serious ACL injury, Alex Calabrese of MIR97 Media reported Saturday.
Analysis: Franco is making steady progress as he looks to return at some point in the 2026 season, a comeback that would represent a huge boost to the Fire's midfield towards the final stretch of the year. The midfielder might still be away from being considered for meaningful minutes given the length of his recovery, but once he's ready to play, his presence will help the team in possession and playmaking aspects. Until then, Dje D'Avilla and Anton Saletros should continue to see the most action, with Sergio Oregel offering a rotation option.
Still not training
Franco (knee) has yet to feature in training for Chicago following his ACL surgery back on November, per Joe Chatz of On Tap Sports Net.
Analysis: Franco remains in the recovery phase and is still not ready to rejoin full team training. Since arriving from Porto on a permanent deal, he has made just six appearances, and while he hopes to feature at least once or twice before the 2026 season concludes, his return will depend entirely on how quickly he progresses.
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