Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers will miss the remainder of the season after opting to undergo surgery following an injury sustained during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to Sportal Greece.

The Nigeria international, who joined Panathinaikos last summer window, suffered a rupture involving a tendon linked to the rectus femoris in his right leg ahead of Nigeria’s third group game against Uganda.

Following the setback, Dessers and club's medical team pursued a conservative rehabilitation approach, aiming to allow natural healing and potentially facilitate a return before the end of the campaign. 

However, upon resuming more intensive training in mid-March as part of his reintegration process, the striker experienced a recurrence of discomfort. 

Subsequent medical examinations revealed that the injury had not fully healed, leaving surgery as the most viable long-term solution.

Dessers has now undergone surgery abroad, with Panathinaikos closely monitoring his rehabilitation to avoid further complications. 

The former Rangers striker is expected to return to training by early July, in time for pre-season preparations ahead of the 2026/2027 campaign.

Before the injury, Dessers had shown promising form, registering two goals and one assist in five league appearances.

His absence is a significant blow for the club this season, and they will be hopeful he returns to full fitness soon to make a strong impact once again. 

Adeyemi Adewale