‘What’s wrong with this season’ – Fans react in disbelief as German referee Felix Brych ruptures his ACL during Frankfurt vs Stuttgart game

Budesliga referee Felix Brych injured his ACL during Stuttgart vs Frankfurt.

‘What’s wrong with this season’ – Fans react in disbelief as German referee Felix Brych ruptures his ACL during Frankfurt vs Stuttgart game

Felix Brych injury (Via X/@CentreGoals)

ACL injuries have plagued teams and players alike. From Neymar Jr. to Arda Güler, the footballing community knows what it feels like to miss out on entire seasons due to injuries. However, to the surprise of many, match referee Felix Brych has been the latest victim of the injury. The German match official appeared to twist both his knee and ankle while turning mid-game.

The unfortunate incident came in the first half, as he turned to catch a glimpse of the ball in play. Even though he tried to carry on till half-time, the official was seen struggling to remain on the pitch, as players were forced to offer him support. He was eventually replaced by fourth official Patrick Schwengers, who was also making his debut.

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However, the 48-year-old attained a unique record even though his injury clouded the headlines. He became the referee to have joint-most appearances in the Bundesliga, equalling Wolfgang Stark, who attained the same in 2017.

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Even though there has been no official diagnosis, the referee told Sky News that he ‘suspects’ a torn cruciate ligament. If found to be true, the official will be delayed from attaining the individual record for most matches officiated.

Fans react to Felix Brych’s ACL injury

Bundesliga referee Felix Brych suffered a suspected ACL tear during Eintracht Frankfurt vs VfB Stuttgart on Saturday. Fans have reacted to the same and the initial impressions state that many Bundesliga fans are pleased with the news. Unsurprisingly, 344 games in charge do not go by without upsetting fan groups and supporters. Hence, the joy and celebration at the news of his injury.

Felix Brych
Felix Brych (Via X/@MartinPaniik1983)

A fan said that this was the best day of his life, reacting to a post announcing the referee’s injury. Another was surprised that even the refs were picking up ACL injuries and wondered what was wrong with the season. A fan made fun of Felix Brych, asking for officials to check VAR to make sure it ‘wasnt something else’. The direct takeaway would be that games are getting too much even for the referees to stay fit throughout the season.

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Some fans began to wonder why referees don’t pick up as many injuries, pointing to the fact that this was a rare occurrence. Others asked for FIFA and governing bodies to keep the interests of players and referees in mind when scheduling games. The referee will no longer be available to officiate games this season. Moreover, Brych may also miss out on the 2024 Euros depending on his recovery.

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