Crew striker Wessam Abou Ali (ACL) out for season
Feb 28, 2026; Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Columbus Crew forward Wessam Abou Ali (9) reacts after scoring a goal during the first half against the Sporting Kansas City at Children's Mercy Park. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images Columbus Crew striker Wessam Abou Ali will miss the rest of the season with a torn right ACL, the club announced on Tuesday.
The 27-year-old Palestine international also sustained meniscus damage in his knee during Sunday's 1-1 draw against visiting Orlando City.
Abou Ali leads Columbus and is tied for fourth in MLS with five goals through seven matches this season. He has eight goals and two assists in 12 career regular-season matches with the Crew.
"I will be back stronger than before, and right now I'm just excited to start this comeback journey with my loved ones by my side," Abou Ali wrote on Instagram.
Abou Ali, one of the Crew's three designated players, was acquired from Egypt's Al Ahly in July 2025 for a reported $7.5 million transfer fee and up to $1 million in add-ons.
Crew coach Henrik Rydstrom's options for replacing Abou Ali in the No. 9 role include Nariman Akhundzada, Jamal Thiare and 17-year-old homegrown forward Chase Adams.
--Field Level Media
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