Lewis Holtby Suffers Injury During Match Against Fortuna Sittard

Lewis Holtby, 35, suffered a gruesome gash on his left leg during a match against Fortuna Sittard on April 12, 2026. The injury occurred just 38 minutes into the game, prompting immediate medical attention and his replacement by Mohamed Nassoh.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but the incident overshadowed the result. Notably, the referee did not issue a card to Justin Hubner for the foul that caused Holtby’s injury, raising questions among fans and analysts alike.

Holtby, who has previously played for clubs such as Tottenham, Fulham, and Blackburn, joined NAC Breda in 2025. He has made 35 appearances in the Premier League, scoring two goals and providing five assists. His experience and skill have been vital for his current team in the Eredivisie.

Following the incident, Holtby took to social media to reassure fans, stating, “Some stitches, Eis… will be back in no time. Thanks for the messages.” His optimism reflects a determination to recover quickly.

Fans expressed their concerns on X, with one commenting, “Should footballers maybe start wearing shin guards again?” Another added, “Exactly the reason why shin pads are supposed to be bigger than a two-finger Kit Kat.” These reactions highlight the ongoing debate about player safety in football.

Justin Hubner, the player involved in the foul, also reached out to Holtby, saying, “My friend I hope ur leg is ok it was never my intention to hit you like that hopefully you be back soon.” This sentiment underscores the camaraderie that often exists among players, even in competitive situations.

As Holtby recovers, observers are hopeful he may be fit to face Ajax in two weeks, depending on the severity of his injury and the healing process. With four games remaining in the season, his presence will be crucial for NAC Breda, who are currently two points behind Excelsior in the league standings.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline for Holtby’s return, but the football community is rallying around him as he begins his recovery journey.