Lille midfielder Angel Gomes took to social media to reassure fans that he is okay after being hospitalized following a head injury during Saturday's Ligue 1 match against Stade de Reims. The 23-year-old was treated on the pitch for over 30 minutes after colliding with Reims midfielder Amadou Koné in the 11th minute. Gomes was taken away on a stretcher as fans of both clubs chanted the former Manchester United player's name.
Gomes, who was born in Edmonton, north London, posted a video on Instagram thanking the medical staff at the football club as well as at the hospital, and told supporters that he has returned to his home after undergoing tests at the facility.
"Just a message to let everyone know that I'm all good!," Gomes wrote as the caption. "The support has been overwhelming and I just Thank God everything is okay, love and blessings!"
"P.S. Remind me not to jump for no more headers."
Lille club president Olivier Létang told French outlet L'Equipe on Sunday that the test results from Gomes' hospital visit were "reassuring" and the player only needed one stitch in his lip. The incident occurred in the 11th minute of the game, during which Gomes was involved in a clash of heads with Reims midfielder Amadou Kone. It was clear the injury was serious, with Gomes unconscious for a period of time before regaining consciousness.
Gomes' Injury Sparks Concerns Over Medical Response
Gomes' injury sparked concerns about the speed of the medical response, as the former Manchester United midfielder lay on the pitch for over 30 minutes before being stretchered off. Lille teammate Tiago Santos took to social media to criticize the amount of time it took for the emergency team to attend to Gomes after the incident.
"Me and some of the players were very upset with the situation," Santos wrote on Instagram. "It's unacceptable the amount of time Angel was on the floor waiting for the emergency team and ambulance to arrive. I think something has to be done, for something like this won't happen again."
Concerns About the Lengthy Stoppage
Lille head coach Bruno Genesio echoed Santos' concerns, stating his frustration at the delay in medical treatment for Gomes. "We were very, very scared. The latest news is rather reassuring, but it's better to be cautious. I was angry, because it's hard to see one of your players on the ground. We spend a lot of time together, we're a family, and to see one of our players attacked, because it is an attack, is very difficult to live with." The lengthy stoppage of the match meant that 34 minutes of injury time were added to the first half. Despite the incident, Lille went on to win the match 2-0.
Gomes' Career and Impact on the Game
Angel Gomes joined Lille in 2020 after spending 14 years at Manchester United. His time at Old Trafford saw him make 10 appearances for the first team, and he is considered a product of their world-renowned academy. He also helped England win the Under-17 World Cup in 2017 and the Under-21 European Championship in 2023. Gomes' impact on the game is evident in the outpouring of support he received from fans and fellow players alike. His quick recovery and reassurance to his fans shows his resilience and dedication to the sport.
Gomes' Return to the Pitch
While Gomes is currently recovering, there is no definitive timeframe for his return to the pitch. Lille will likely have to follow concussion protocol, meaning Gomes is likely to miss several matches before he can play again. The incident, however, serves as a reminder of the dangers of the sport and the importance of player safety. It is hoped that Gomes will make a full recovery and continue to make a positive impact on the pitch.
The Incident Highlights the Importance of Player Safety
The incident has sparked discussions on player safety and the need for swift medical response in football. As the game evolves, player safety must remain a priority, and incidents like Gomes' serve as a reminder that more can be done to protect players on the pitch. The incident also serves as a reminder of the human element within professional sports, and the importance of supporting athletes during difficult times.