Beijing: Samuel Asamoah, a Togo midfielder playing for Guangxi Pingguo, faces the risk of paralysis following a severe collision with an advertising board during a match against Chongqing Tonglianglong. The incident occurred on Sunday when Asamoah collided head-first with an LED panel.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the 31-year-old midfielder remained on the ground as medical staff provided immediate assistance. On Monday, his club announced that Asamoah is at risk of “high-level paraplegia,” having suffered multiple neck fractures and extensive nerve damage. The club confirmed that Asamoah has undergone surgery and is currently in stable condition, but they cautioned that “his career may also be seriously affected.”

A statement from Guangxi Pingguo FC expressed gratitude to fans and supporters for their concern, adding that updates on Asamoah’s recovery will be provided following further examinations. Asamoah’s football journey began at the Aspire Academy in 2012, leading to a five-year stint with Eupen in Belgium. He later played for Sint-Truiden, making 115 appearances before joining FC U Craiova and Qingdao Red Lions. This year, he moved to Guangxi Pingguo, where he has made 24 appearances across all competitions.

The news of Asamoah’s injury comes shortly after the football community mourned the death of Billy Vigar last month.