Nottingham Forest star Danilo sends message to fans after horror injury against Bournemouth
Nottingham Forest and AFC Bournemouth played out an entertaining 1-1 draw at the Forest Ground on Saturday, August 17, but the match was overshadowed by a horrific injury to midfielder Danilo early in the game. The Brazilian has since shared an update regarding his condition.
Danilo, who had started the game brightly, landed awkwardly while challenging for an aerial duel with Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo. Replays showed that he twisted his left ankle, and the reactions from both his teammates and the Bournemouth players made it clear that the injury was serious.
The game was consequently halted for about 10 minutes as the 23-year-old was stretchered off the pitch and replaced by Ryan Yates.
Though Danilo was visibly in pain when he landed, he now appears upbeat, having sent a reassuring message to the Forest supporters via Instagram.
"Hey guys, I’m just stopping by to say that I’m fine, thank God, and I’m already home. We’ll be back soon. Thank you for all the messages of support," Danilo wrote.
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo addressed the situation and expressed concerns that it could potentially be a long-term injury.
‘It was a tough moment for everybody here. First of all, Danilo is a very special person, the way he works with a smile on his face. Then we’re going to miss his qualities, his talent and what he gives to the team. We wish him well and hope for the best. Let’s hope it’s not too much time," he said. (via Metro UK)
Danilo joined Nottingham Forest from Palmeiras in January 2023 and has been a key figure at the club since his arrival. He has made 50 appearances, scoring six goals and providing four assists.
Nottingham Forest and AFC Bournemouth share spoils on opening day
Nottingham Forest, who narrowly avoided relegation last season, have been active in the transfer market, bringing in the likes of Elliot Anderson and Nikola Milenkovic, among other notable signings.
They started the game brightly, with Chris Wood (23') continuing his fine form by capitalizing on a mistake by Neto in goal. Both teams had their chances after the goal, but Bournemouth equalized late in the match due to a mix-up in the Forest box, with Semenyo scoring in the 86th minute.
Nuno Espirito Santo expressed satisfaction with the performance and is confident that the team will continue to improve in the upcoming games.
"Chris Wood did well, he gives us another option. Overall I am happy. It’s the first game of the season. I am satisfied with the way we played and competed against a tough team. It was a good game, they had chances, we had chances. Let’s go for the next one," he said. (via Metro UK)
Next, Forest will travel to the south coast to face Southampton on August 24, followed by an EFL Cup tie against Newcastle United on August 26.