Cyriel Dessers has been sidelined for the rest of the season after having surgery due to an injury he suffered during the Africa Cup of Nations, as reported by Daily Post.
The Nigerian player, who joined Panathinaikos during the summer transfer period, experienced a tendon rupture in the rectus femoris of his right leg just before the team’s third group match against Uganda in the tournament.
Following his injury, Dessers began a conservative rehab program with his club’s medical team, aiming to return to play before the season ended. This plan was focused on allowing the injury to heal on its own without the need for surgery.
Unfortunately, later in his recovery, the forward felt discomfort again while increasing his training efforts in mid-March. Further medical evaluations showed that his injury had not completely healed, leading to a review of his treatment strategy.
After discussions regarding his options, surgery was determined to be the best choice for a full recovery and to avoid any additional issues. Dessers has now undergone the surgery overseas and will continue his rehabilitation under careful medical supervision.
The ex-Rangers player is projected to begin training again by early July, just in time for the pre-season activities ahead of the 2026/2027 season.
Before his injury, Dessers had been performing well for Panathinaikos, scoring two goals and providing one assist in five league games, which showed his increasing impact on the team.
His absence is a significant loss for the Greek team as they approach the final part of the season, now having to move forward without one of their key attacking players.