Joseph Paintsil sidelined for two months

Ghanaian forward Joseph Paintsil has been ruled out for up to eight weeks due to a quad injury, dealing a blow to both LA Galaxy and the Black Stars.

Paintsil played a key role for LA Galaxy last season, scoring 10 goals and providing 10 assists in the regular season. He made 29 appearances, including 28 starts, and was instrumental in the club’s MLS Cup triumph, opening the scoring in the final.

His injury comes at a difficult time for LA Galaxy, who are also without star midfielder Riqui Puig as they prepare for the new season. Coach Greg Vanney’s side will continue their pre-season campaign against Minnesota United in the Coachella Valley Invitational on Wednesday.

Paintsil’s absence could extend until April, ruling him out of Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar. His injury adds to Ghana’s growing list of absentees, including Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (ACL), Nathaniel Adjei (ankle), and Alidu Seidu (ACL).

With Paintsil sidelined, LA Galaxy will have to adjust their attacking plans, while Ghana must find alternatives ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers. His return will be eagerly awaited by both club and country.