In a recent article by BBC Sport, Dr Ramón Cugat—widely known as “Guardiola’s trusted surgeon”—explained the sharp increase in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in elite football.
He emphasised that these injuries are not simply a by-product of bad luck, but are linked to higher running speeds, increased number of matches, less recovery time, and evolving pitch and boot technology. Many clubs now see an ACL injury as a major red flag, demanding not just surgical repair but a full functional recovery strategy.
At Instituto Cugat Romania, we agree: the path back to sport must be guided by objective criteria — strength symmetry, neuromuscular control, and psychological readiness — rather than just the calendar.
➡️ Read the full article: BBC Sport – Guardiola’s trusted surgeon explains rise in ACL injuries
