Ranking the Five Worst Injuries in the History of Football

Football is a riveting and thrilling sport, yet it carries inherent risks. In the pursuit of scoring goals or defending their box, players often sacrifice their bodies, occasionally leading to injuries.

Whether it be seasoned professionals or emerging talents making their mark, a severe injury can significantly impact one's career.

Sports Brief examines the five most severe injuries in the history of the game.

Worst injuries in football history

Eduardo da Silva (Arsenal vs Birmingham City - 2008)

In 2008, Eduardo da Silva endured a traumatic leg fracture while playing for Arsenal against Birmingham City. A poorly timed tackle by Martin Taylor resulted in a broken left fibula and dislocated ankle for Eduardo, forcing him to the sidelines just months after joining the Gunners.

Enduring an extended period on the sidelines, he managed to make a comeback in February 2009. However, the Croatian struggled to recapture his former prowess, much to the disappointment of Arsenal fans worldwide. He later pursued his career with Shakhtar Donetsk, experiencing moderate success before ultimately retiring from football in 2018.

Luke Shaw (Manchester United vs PSV - 2015)

The left-back displayed significant potential in the early stages of his career with the Saints, leading the Red Devils to secure his signature early to fend off potential competition.

Both the club and the player faced a setback when Shaw sustained a double leg fracture during a Champions League match against PSV in 2015, severely hampering his development at Old Trafford.

Following an extensive 11-month recovery period, Shaw made a comeback to the pitch. Gradually rediscovering his form, he became a crucial component of United's defense, although injury challenges persisted throughout his tenure at the club.

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Football

Marcin Wasilewski (Anderlecht vs Standard Liege - 2009)

In a 2009 Belgian Pro League match, Axel Witsel's brutal tackle left Marcin Wasilewski with a broken leg and ankle. Wasilewski underwent surgery for open fractures to both the tibia and fibula. Witsel received an eight-game suspension, later reduced on appeal.

Despite the intensive treatment, Wasilewski made an astounding recovery, resuming his career at Leicester City. He played a pivotal role in winning a Premier League title under Claudio Ranieri, marking one of the greatest sporting achievements in history.

Roberto Baggio (Brescia vs Parma - 2002)

Roberto Baggio, a prominent Italian player in the late 20th century, had an illustrious international career with the Azzurri spanning an impressive 16 years from 1988 to 2004.

However, it was in the latter part of his playing career that Baggio encountered his most formidable setback. In 2002, he suffered a devastating blow when he tore his ACL, forcing him to miss several months of play.

Despite facing this setback, Baggio successfully made a comeback, achieving consecutive seasons with double-digit goal tallies in Serie A.

Kieron Dyer (West Ham United vs Bristol Rovers - 2007)

A few years following the incident at St James' Park, Kieron Dyer experienced what could be considered the nadir of his career.

During a League Cup match against Bristol Rovers, an inadvertent collision with Joe Jacobson resulted in a double fracture to Dyer's right leg, while he was playing for West Ham.

While he did manage to recover, the injury he suffered in 2007 significantly impeded his career. The former Newcastle star never attained the same heights he had once enjoyed.