Bayern Munich has launched a scathing attack on Canada Soccer, blaming the national team for Alphonso Davies’ devastating ACL injury, which will sideline him for at least six months. The German club claims that Davies, 24, suffered the serious knee injury due to negligence while on international duty and accuses Canada Soccer of mishandling the situation.
The Bayern defender limped off the field just 12 minutes into Canada’s 2-1 victory over the United States in a Concacaf Nations League third-place match on Sunday. Despite concerns, Canada Soccer initially cleared him to play. However, upon his return to Munich, medical tests revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), shocking both Bayern officials and fans.
Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund did not hold back in his criticism during a press conference on Friday, calling Canada Soccer’s actions “borderline” and “negligent.” He blasted the federation for allowing Davies to board a 12-hour flight back to Germany without conducting a proper medical examination. “The handling of this situation was wrong. We employ the players and pay them, so we will investigate this matter,” Freund stated, emphasizing Bayern’s frustration over the ordeal.
Club CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen went even further, telling German newspaper Bild that Bayern demands a “full explanation” and is considering legal action against Canada Soccer. “Sending an obviously injured player with a knee problem on a 12-hour intercontinental flight without a thorough medical assessment is, in our view, extremely careless and a clear breach of medical duty of care,” he said.
Dreesen defended Davies, insisting that the player himself was not at fault. “Phonzy is the captain and wants to take responsibility. But Canada, as the host nation for the 2026 World Cup, has already qualified. You cannot take risks with a player like him.”
Davies’ injury is a major blow to Bayern, who also lost French center-back Dayot Upamecano to a long-term leg injury during the international break. Additionally, the club remains without captain Manuel Neuer, adding to their growing list of sidelined stars.
The Canadian federation has yet to issue an official response to Bayern’s allegations, but with the Bundesliga giants threatening legal action, this controversy is far from over.
