Manchester City talent on-loan in Championship sidelined for “at least” six weeks | OneFootball

Wrexham and Manchester City will work alongside each other to treat Issa Kabore, who is expected to be sidelined for “at least” six weeks following a fresh problem.

Kabore’s energetic displays, versatility on the right flank, and widespread European experience from his time with Luton Town and in the Bundesliga had helped steady the Welsh club’s early transition into life in the Championship.

The setback comes just weeks after Manchester City finalised Kabore’s temporary exit, having spent much of the window evaluating different destinations including talks with the likes of Southampton, Lyon, Hamburg, Leicester, Ipswich, and Paris FC, before Wrexham pushed ahead with a decisive offer supported by their ambitious Championship project.

The timing is especially frustrating given Issa Kabore’s broader international commitments. The defender picked up the issue while away with Burkina Faso during the latest international break.

Despite their failure to reach the final stage of World Cup qualification, the national team arranged additional friendlies, and Kabore was forced off early in a 3–2 win over Niger in Morocco, later confirmed as a hamstring problem.

Speaking during the last week, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson opened up on the major injury blow to his side with Issa Kabore, having played a big role in the club’s start to life in the Championship this season.

“It is really unfortunate for Issa. He’s obviously playing well and it looks like it is going to be at least a six-week injury. When I got the call over the break that Issa was injured, obviously it wasn’t the best call to take from (physio) Kevin Mulholland,” said Parkinson.

He continued, “But it’s always that risk when players are travelling long distances and playing, they can get an injury, and I’m sure there are other teams who will have lost players through this international break.”

Offering some insight on the recovery process, Parkinson explained, “Issa’s been a great character to have with us and we’ll get him back. It will be a combination of treatment from Manchester City, because he lives close to the training ground, and with us as well.

“Obviously, the Africa Cup of Nations is coming up as well. I’ve watched a couple of games and Issa seems to be one of the important players, but obviously he’s got to be fit and that’s going to be touch and go.”

Issa Kabore’s absence forces Wrexham into a reshuffle, particularly as they had built their early Championship defensive structure around his athleticism and reliability at right-back. The club may need to adjust tactically over the coming weeks, especially given the demanding nature of the division.

For Manchester City, the injury adds another layer of uncertainty to a loan deal already carrying long-term implications. City have previously used loan spells as pathways to eventual permanent exits, something explored earlier in the summer window when Paris FC discussed an option-to-buy clause.

Kabore’s recovery period will therefore be monitored closely by Etihad Stadium officials, both for his playing development and his potential future market value. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso will also keep a close eye on his progress with the Africa Cup of Nations fast approaching, and starting in mid-December.