If Kasper Dolberg misses, Ajax struggles without ex‑Anderlecht striker

On a cold Tuesday in Copenhagen, Kasper Dolberg, the 28‑year‑old Danish striker of Ajax Amsterdam, underwent surgery on his right knee. The injury, sustained during a training session with the national team, was deemed serious by the medical staff, with fears of a torn cruciate ligament. The procedure went well, but rehabilitation will take many months.

Shock for Ajax after injury during international break

Dolberg, former striker of RSC Anderlecht, had recently scored two goals and provided three assists in his last two Eredivisie matches, gradually regaining his form. However, his absence comes at a crucial moment, as he had just reclaimed his place in the starting lineup after a spell on the bench. The Danish football association reported that he will be absent for a “long period”, later fearing a cruciate ligament injury.

Implications for club and country

For Ajax, the loss of Dolberg is a heavy blow; the club had hoped for his attacking impetus to achieve the season’s objectives. In 48 matches for the Amsterdam side he recorded thirteen goals and six assists, a productivity that is now missing. Moreover, the injury could undermine Dolberg’s ambitions with the national team, where he has twelve goals in 56 internationals.

The operation took place in Copenhagen and, according to the club, the rehabilitation will last “many and many months”. Ajax has expressed their support via a press release on social media and wishes Dolberg a speedy recovery. The club emphasized that he can now begin rehabilitation, but the road back to top form will be long.

Dolberg’s situation illustrates how an injury during an international break can ruin a season. If the diagnosis of a torn cruciate ligament is confirmed, his campaign at Ajax could come to a definitive end. For now, the focus remains on recovery and hoping for a return to the highest level.