A key offensive player for Daejeon Hana Citizen in South Korea’s professional K League 1 has sustained a fractured spinous process and will be sidelined for at least one month.
The club announced that Masa received the injury diagnosis following a foul during their match against Ulsan HD. Medical assessments indicate he will require 3-4 weeks of treatment and rehabilitation.
During the away fixture at Ulsan World Cup Stadium, Masa had delivered an outstanding performance with one goal and one assist, helping his team secure a commanding 4-1 victory in the Round 10 encounter.
The incident occurred during stoppage time in the second half. While Masa was dribbling in midfield and attempting to pass the ball to the left flank, Ulsan defender Jo Hyun-taek came in late with a forceful body charge. The contact happened after the ball had already left Masa’s possession, making it an unnecessary challenge.
The referee immediately issued a yellow card to the Ulsan defender. Masa signaled to the bench with an ‘X’ gesture, indicating he could no longer continue. He was carried off the field on a stretcher and transported to hospital after the final whistle.
This season, Masa has appeared in eight matches and scored twice, tying him for the team’s top scorer alongside teammates Seo Jin-su and Diogo, making him a crucial attacking asset for Daejeon.
Following the match, Jo Hyun-taek gestured an apology to Daejeon supporters with clasped hands, acknowledging his mistake. However, fans expressed disappointment over what they perceived as a lack of professional sportsmanship.
Masa addressed supporters through social media, stating: “It doesn’t appear to be a serious injury, so please don’t worry. I sincerely thank everyone for their concern.”
He added: “The opposing player has apologized to me several times directly, so I ask that people refrain from criticism.”
Jo Hyun-taek reportedly contacted Masa personally after the game to express his regret. Ulsan HD also released a statement wishing Masa a speedy recovery.