After a tough defeat in the promotion race against Holstein Kiel on matchday 32 last season, SV Werder were then dealt another tough blow that same weekend as Manuel Mbom suffered a season-ending injury in training. He underwent surgery on a torn Achilles tendon just days later. Now, four months later, the 22-year-old spoke to WERDER.DE about his fitness levels, his rehabilitation and the start to the season.
WERDER.DE: Moin, Manu. To start, how are you feeling?
Manuel Mbom: "I’m doing well and much better than I was early on in my recovery. I’m trying to stay positive about my injury. I think it’s important to remain mentally strong. Having things to distract yourself with is also important. I try to direct my focus elsewhere at times, but to also not overdo it. I’m focused on my rehabilitation and am able to walk normally again now.”
WERDER.DE: What’s included in your rehabilitation plan currently?
Manuel Mbom: "I’m allowed to do upper and lower body exercises now, which includes cardio and endurance training such as on the ergometer. I’m allowed to run on the anti-gravity treadmill as well, but only up to 60% of my body weight. I’ve started doing some light jogging on there.”
WERDER.DE: Are you going through rehabilitation on your own or are you doing it where you’re with the team?
Manuel Mbom: "Early on I was training in a fitness centre in my hometown because the team were on holiday. That allowed me to be with my family and to also focus on my rehab. Now, I’m with the team pretty much all the time and am continuing my recovery at facilities at the wohninvest WESERSTADION.”
WERDER.DE: What’s your current impression of the team? How did you experience the start to the season?
Manuel Mbom: "I think that it’s never easy as a promoted side. Based on that, I’d say that we’ve gotten off to a solid start. Especially the game against Dortmund, we really had something to celebrate there. I think that we have a strong team spirit and the chemistry is good. We have really grown close as a team.”
WERDER.DE: What’s the timeline for your return? What goals have you set for yourself?
Manuel Mbom: "The World Cup this winter gives me a bit more time. When it comes to Achilles tendon injuries, you need to be cautious and not rush back too soon. I’m on a good path right now. Of course, I’d love to be able to return this winter. Maybe I’ll be able to be back in team training by the new year and be an option for the squad, but it’s difficult to predict how long it might take with an injury like this.”
WERDER.DE: Do you know anyone that’s suffered a similar injury?
Manuel Mbom: "Yeah, I spoke to several people. No one at Werder has suffered this injury before, but I was messaging Noah Awuku from Holstein Kiel. He has also torn his Achilles tendon before. There’s also Axel Witsel, Charles Aranguiz or the NBA’s Kevin Durant who have all had this happen. At Werder, of course, there was also Fin Bartels who tore his Achilles. You hear about it happening and pay attention to it.”
WERDER.DE: Did anyone have a special tip for you?
Manuel Mbom: "I just need to be patient and take the time I need.”
