Sergio Rico Makes Miraculous Return to the Pitch with Al-Gharafa

Former PSG goalkeeper plays in a game again for the first time since 2023 injury

Sergio Rico, who used to play goalie for Paris Saint-Germain, came back to play for Qatari team Al-Gharafa in the Asian Champions League on Tuesday. He hadn’t played in a professional match since May 2023, when he badly hurt his head in a riding accident. He was put into a medically-induced coma and spent 19 days and 36 days in intensive care.

Following the accident involving a mule cart and a horse, Rico’s life changed drastically. He sustained serious head injuries. After his deal with PSG ended in September 2024, he signed with Al-Gharafa. It took him a long time to get better.

Rico played his first game for his new team on Tuesday, and they beat one of the best teams in the United Arab Emirates, Al Ain, 4–2. In addition to being a win for Al-Gharafa, the game was also a big deal for Rico because it marked his return to professional football after a long time off.

WHAT ROBERT SAID

Rico told his fans on social media how happy and grateful he was for his return:

“Back to the game and back to winning.” A big thank you to all the people who have helped. The first win in a long line of them.”

Rico’s decision to play football again shows how strong he is and gives hope to everyone in the football community. From fighting for his life to getting back on the field, his story shows how to keep going even when things get hard and love the game.