Nigerian forward Rafiu Durosinmi is edging closer to a return to full fitness after enduring a challenging 15-month injury absence, Czech club Viktoria Plzeň announced.
A video titled “Rafiu is back,” released on the club’s YouTube channel, has reignited hope among fans, chronicling the young striker’s recovery journey and revisiting some of his standout moments in the red and blue jersey.
Durosinmi’s injury nightmare began on October 21, 2023, during a league clash against Liberec. A collision with his own goalkeeper, Marián Tvrdoně, resulted in a severe knee injury that required ligament surgery.
The incident not only ended his season prematurely but also scuppered a prospective transfer to Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt, with German outlet Bild revealing that additional ankle complications further complicated the deal.
Following surgery, the Lagos-born striker embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation program, including treatment at a renowned clinic in Belgium.
Despite the setback, Viktoria Plzeň head coach Miroslav Koubek remains optimistic about Durosinmi’s return. Speaking after their resounding 7-2 victory over České Budějovice, Koubek shared his thoughts on the striker’s progress.
“Durosinmi has been training for a long time, gaining fitness, but he hasn’t made any contact yet. But the game activities, such as shooting, ball handling, and passing, have been in full operation for several weeks now. I am optimistic.”
The emotional video highlights Durosinmi’s progress under the guidance of physiotherapist Michal Rukavička, as well as some of his memorable goals against Czech giants Sparta and Slavia Prague.
At just 21 years old—turning 22 on New Year’s Day—Durosinmi has already made a significant impact for Viktoria Plzeň, registering 13 goals and six assists in 34 competitive appearances.
The coming weeks will be critical for the striker as he undergoes functional tests in late December. A successful outcome will see him join the squad for a January 6 training camp in Benidorm, Spain.
Coach Koubek added: “We will be there in good weather conditions, which is only good for him. Returning to sports form is a different topic, though.”
“He hasn’t played football for a year and a quarter, he can’t be back right away. It will be about dosing the load, gradually increasing the playing time.”
Durosinmi, a product of the Box2Box FC academy, joined Viktoria Plzeň in 2023 after two successful years at Czech side Karvina. His resilience through adversity underscores his determination to make a triumphant return and reestablish himself as a key player for Plzeň.
