Turkey's defensive lineup for Euro 2024 took a hit as Ozan Kabak suffered a torn cruciate ligament in his right knee during a friendly against Italy, the Turkish Football Association disclosed on Wednesday.
The injury occurred as Kabak contested the ball with Italy's Mateo Retegui just before halftime in the goalless friendly match.
Confirming Kabak's absence from the Euro 2024 squad, the Turkish federation opted not to name a replacement for the defender.
At 24 years old, Kabak, formerly with Liverpool, plies his trade in the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim. The club lamented his extended absence, foreseeing "many months" of recovery for the player.
Hoffenheim's managing director, Alexander Rosen, expressed deep regret, noting Kabak's aspiration to represent Turkey in Euro 2024 on home soil in Germany.
With Turkey set to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Georgia on June 18 in Group F, followed by matches against Portugal on June 22 and the Czech Republic on June 26, Kabak's injury poses a significant setback to their defensive plans.
