Hamburger SV confirmed on Friday, October 2, that Patson Daka has torn a muscle fibre in his left thigh. The Zambia striker was hurt against Algeria and faces several weeks on the sidelines.
The MRT scan settled it. Daka arrived back in Hamburg carrying a knock and was examined at the Athleticum, the club’s medical centre at the Volkspark. The club’s diagnosis: a torn muscle fibre in the left thigh, which means a break « in the coming weeks ». Hamburg did not put a date on his return.
Hooked at half-time against Algeria
The damage was done on Friday, September 25. Zambia lost 3-1 to Algeria on the opening matchday of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying, and Daka was withdrawn at the interval. He was then left out of the matchday squad entirely for the 2-0 win over Togo four days later. Now we know why.
Hamburg’s striker crisis deepens
Coach Merlin Polzin could do without this. The newly promoted side had already lost Albert Grønbæk to a similar thigh problem and are also without Terem Moffi, according to Kicker. When the Bundesliga resumes, Hamburg face TSG Hoffenheim and then VfB Stuttgart, two tough assignments Daka will be watching from the stands.
Signed on a free transfer from Leicester City in the summer, the former Red Bull Salzburg goal machine had slotted straight into the rotation, featuring in all five of Hamburg’s competitive games, starting three and providing one assist. His first goal for the club will have to wait.