Gerard Deulofeu wants to make 'history' after more than three years out injured
BBC World
February 15, 2026
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Gerard Deulofeu, a former Spain winger, is determined to make history by returning to professional football after more than three years on the sidelines due to a series of injuries and setbacks. The 31-year-old, who last played in January 2023 for Udinese, has been working tirelessly in the gym to rebuild his strength and prepare for what he hopes will be an extraordinary comeback. Despite enduring the emotional toll of losing touch with the game and even simple daily activities like walking with his children, Deulofeu remains optimistic about defying the odds.
Deulofeu's journey began with a severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in 2023, which initially seemed manageable but soon took a darker turn when an infection destroyed the cartilage in his knee. This complication forced him to delay his recovery for nearly two years. He has sought inspiration from fellow Spanish footballer Santi Cazorla, who endured a similarly grueling comeback after suffering gangrene in his Achilles tendon. Deulofeu has undergone cell therapy and injections to rebuild his knee's cartilage, but progress has been slow and challenging.
Despite the obstacles, Deulofeu has focused on building muscle strength through intense gym sessions with Udinese's fitness team. His dedication has brought him closer to resuming running, a crucial step toward potentially returning to football. However, he acknowledges the risks, as his knee lacks cartilage and meniscus, making each movement a test of resilience.
Deulofeu’s story is not just about physical recovery but also about mental fortitude. He has leaned on family support and drawn inspiration from players like Cazorla to stay motivated during moments of
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/15/2026