AFC Toronto head coach Marko Milanovic has confirmed that Nigerian forward Esther Okoronkwo is facing a spell on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring and meniscus injury.
Providing an update on the Super Falcons star, Milanovic revealed that initial medical assessments suggest the forward could be unavailable for around six weeks.
“She’ll likely be out for six weeks,” he said.
According to the coach, Okoronkwo sustained damage to her meniscus alongside the hamstring issue, making the recovery process more delicate.
“It’s a significant setback,” he implied.
Milanovic acknowledged the importance of the Nigerian attacker to the team and admitted her absence will be felt heavily within the squad.
“She’s a key player for us,” he noted.
Despite the setback, the AFC Toronto manager expressed confidence in the depth of the squad to cope while the forward recovers.
“We trust the players we have,” he added.
For Milanovic, managing injuries properly is essential to ensuring players return stronger rather than rushing rehabilitation.
“We must be careful with recovery,” he stressed.
Okoronkwo has continued to grow in importance for both club and country, making the timing of the injury particularly unfortunate.
“It’s disappointing for everyone,” many supporters have reacted.
As the recovery process begins, attention will now turn toward the striker’s rehabilitation and return timeline.
For Milanovic, the message is clear.
The injury is serious.
The player needs proper recovery.
And the team must adapt in her absence.
Because long seasons often test a squad’s depth just as much as its talent.
