“My game is over, the season is over and the World Cup is over.” Laurent Koscielny knew exactly what happened before anyone else could tell him about the severity of his injury. Seven minutes into Arsenal’s Europa League semi-final with Atletico Madrid at the noisy Wanda Metropolitano stadium, the Frenchman collapsed away from the ball. It was his Achilles again.
“The way he went down and his hand went up in the air, and he put his head down towards the floor. I knew straight away this was a serious injury,” said Arsenal club doctor Gary O’Driscoll.
The 33-year-old had a history of issues with his Achilles and had previously admitted in 2017 that he needed day-by-day treatment for the rest of his career.
So for Koscielny, the worst possible news became a reality in May 2018 when it was confirmed that he had ruptured his Achilles. It would rule him out for the rest of the season, but, more importantly, sideline him for France’s World Cup tournament – a trophy which they would go on to win in Russia.
Koscielny departs the pitch with a massive smile on his face. Good to see him back ❤️ #AFC https://t.co/HQKMPYocsi
— Gunners.com (@Gunnersc0m) December 13, 2018
“It is difficult being out injured,” Koscielny said after making his first appearance in seven months against Qarabag on Thursday night.
“It was the first big injury of my career and I had to take a long time out, but you learn a lot about yourself and I am very happy. I am focused mentally, and I can smile and enjoy the rest of the season.”
Here is a full video of Laca and Guendouzi welcoming Koscielny to the bench. Look at this and tell me it didn’t make a huge smile on your face. Love the atmosphere. pic.twitter.com/aRldNCWqHL
— Aubazettes (@Aubazettes) December 14, 2018
Koscielny joined Arsenal in 2010 from French side Lorient. The start of his Gunners career provided challenges but he gradually adapted to English football, eventually forming an astute defensive partnership alongside Per Mertesacker. The duo went over 20 months undefeated while playing alongside eachother and gave the team balance to go forward as they aimed for a title challenge.