Top Players Sidelined by Injuries During the International Break The March international break has left several top clubs sweating over injuries to key players. With crucial league matches and the Champions League knockout stages fast approaching, teams like Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Arsenal have been hit hard. Here’s a closer look at six high-profile stars who picked up injuries while on international duty and their expected return timelines. 1. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich & Canada) – ACL Injury (Out for Season) A devastating blow for Bayern Munich, Alphonso Davies suffered a severe ACL injury during Canada’s Nations League match against the United States. The rapid left-back, crucial to Bayern’s attacking and defensive play, is now ruled out for the remainder of the season. His absence comes at a critical time, with Bayern set to face Inter Milan in the Champions League quarter-finals. Adding to the controversy, Davies’ agent, Nedal Huoseh, blamed Canada’s coaching staff for pressuring him into playing despite not being fully fit. His injury will also be a concern for Canada ahead of the Copa América this summer. 2. Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich & France) – Knee Injury (Weeks Out) Bayern suffered another setback with Upamecano, who sustained a knee injury after playing 120 minutes in France’s Nations League victory over Croatia. The center-back even scored the winning penalty in the shootout but later returned to Bayern with a concerning knee issue. Reports suggest he could be sidelined until the final weeks of the season. Bayern board member Max Eberl lamented the injuries, stating, “Unfortunately, there’s always the risk of players returning from international breaks with injuries – this time we’ve been hit particularly hard.” 3. Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest & New Zealand) – Possible Muscle Injury (Return Uncertain) Nottingham Forest’s top scorer, Chris Wood, was forced off during New Zealand’s 3-0 World Cup qualifier win over New Caledonia. The striker, who has been pivotal in Forest’s unlikely push for European qualification, reported pain in his leg but remained hopeful that the injury is not serious. Forest’s medical staff are awaiting scan results, but early reports suggest he might be rested for the FA Cup tie against Brighton before returning for the Premier League run-in. 4. Alisson Becker (Liverpool & Brazil) – Suspected Concussion (Undergoing Protocols) Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson, suffered a head injury during Brazil’s 2-1 win over Colombia following a heavy collision with defender Davinson Sánchez. The Brazilian medical team confirmed a suspected concussion, leading to his withdrawal from the squad for their match against Argentina. Alisson later reassured fans via Instagram, saying he was “fine” but will need to follow concussion protocols before returning to action. His status for the upcoming Merseyside derby remains uncertain, with Arne Slot expected to provide an update next week. 5. Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool & Netherlands) – Fitness Issue (Doubt for Derby) Gravenberch did not feature in the Netherlands’ Nations League clashes against Spain after withdrawing from the squad due to an ongoing fitness concern. The injury reportedly stems from the Carabao Cup final, where he sustained a knock. Liverpool will be monitoring his recovery closely, as they prepare for the crucial Merseyside derby and the Champions League quarter-finals. A short rest period may be enough for him to regain full fitness. 6. Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal & Italy) – Knee Discomfort (Short-Term Absence Expected) Arsenal’s Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori suffered a knee issue during Italy’s Nations League match against Germany. The young center-back landed awkwardly, prompting concerns about a recurring knee problem. Italy coach Luciano Spalletti stated, “His knee feels strange, but he can’t answer the question of what he feels.” While the extent of the injury is unclear, early reports suggest Calafiori could be out for a few weeks. With Arsenal in a tight title race and also vying for Champions League glory, Mikel Arteta will be hoping for a speedy recovery. The Gunners might have to rely on academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly as cover if Calafiori’s absence is prolonged. As clubs resume their domestic and European campaigns, the timing of these injuries couldn’t be worse. Bayern Munich is arguably the most affected, losing two defensive stalwarts in Davies and Upamecano. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s concerns over Alisson and Gravenberch add to their growing injury list, and Arsenal will be hoping Calafiori’s setback is only temporary. With crucial fixtures on the horizon, these injuries could have a significant impact on title races, European ambitions, and cup competitions.