Kephren Thuram faces knee surgery and absence until 2027

Kephren Thuram will not return to competitive football before 2027 after a persistent knee problem forced him towards surgery. The Juventus midfielder’s absence comes only weeks before France coach Zinedine Zidane is due to announce his first squad, further complicating his international prospects.

Thuram is scheduled to undergo an arthroscopy in Lyon on September 3, with orthopaedic surgeon Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet set to perform the procedure. The 24-year-old has been dealing with patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner’s knee, a condition associated with repeated strain on the joint and capable of causing pain and restricted movement.

Conservative treatment and a period of individual preparation away from the team have not resolved the issue. Thuram consequently missed Juventus’ entire pre-season programme and was also unavailable when the new league campaign began. He has four France caps.

Juventus have moved to reinforce their midfield during the final phase of the transfer window. Pape Matar Sarr joined from Tottenham on a paid loan that includes an option to buy, providing an additional option while Thuram begins his recovery.