AFC Leopards have been dealt an early blow ahead of the 2026-2027 FKF Premier League season after new goalkeeper Issa Emuria underwent knee surgery.Emuria joined Leopards from Bidco United during the current transfer window after an impressive campaign with the relegated side.##NAJAVA_MECA_9883764##The goalkeeper was one of Bidco's standout performers last season, maintaining his position as the club's first-choice goalkeeper despite their relegation from the FKF Premier League.His performances earned him a move to Leopards, who were looking to rebuild their goalkeeping department after releasing all three of their goalkeepers from last season.Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe club subsequently signed Emuria, Sebastian Wekesa and Tom Ikara, but the former Bidco goalkeeper arrived carrying a knee problem that was initially considered minor.Harambee Stars midfielder completes move to English sideFurther medical consultations, however, established that the injury required surgical intervention.“We indeed signed him with an injury, what we thought was a small issue, but after consultations it was agreed that he goes under the knife to resolve the matter once and for all,” a source at AFC Leopards told Mozzart Sport.Emuria has since undergone the procedure and started his rehabilitation.His recovery means he will be unavailable for at least the first leg of the season.Kenya formally submits bid to host 2029 World Athletics ChampionshipsHis absence leaves Wekesa and Ikara as the club's two senior goalkeeping options ahead of the opening fixtures.It remains unclear whether Leopards will return to the transfer market for another goalkeeper or promote one of their youth-team keepers to provide cover while Emuria continues his rehabilitation.The club is yet to make a final decision, with the technical team expected to assess its options before determining whether another goalkeeper will be added to the squad.For now, Emuria will focus on his rehabilitation as Leopards begin the new campaign without the goalkeeper who had established himself as Bidco's first choice during their difficult 2025/26 season.Kenya’s snap extra medals on final day to finish second globally at WU20 Championships
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