Ryan Alebiosu of Blackburn Rovers has seemingly stated that he will not be eligible for selection again until 2027.

The athletic right-back limped off during the first half of Rovers’ 2-1 loss to Stoke City in midweek, playing only 40 minutes before being forced off with an injury.

The 24-year-old has been a vital player for Lancashire so far this season, appearing in all 14 league games.

So his absence will be a major setback for Tony Mowbray, who will be without one of his key players for the rest of the year.

Summer signing Gady Beyuku was sent on to replace Alebiosu late in the first half, and the club fell behind 1-0 just a few moments after, with the Potters securing all three points in the second half.

Ryan Alebiosu confirms Blackburn Rovers’ injury blow.

Alebiosu has confirmed on his Instagram page that he will be missing for the rest of 2026 due to an issue.

The defender was initially a doubt for this weekend’s game against West Ham, with Mowbray hoping he would be available, but a further scan revealed a more serious problem than first thought.

“Gutted, upset, but God has bigger plans,” Alebiosu wrote.

“Will be back stronger for sure, see you 2027 Rovers.”

Alebiosu also missed a few games for Blackburn last season due to the Africa Cup of Nations, but his absence will be a significant loss for the team.

The defender had previously been linked with Everton as a result of his achievements at Ewood Park, having joined from Belgian club Kortrijk in 2025.

This injury also means he will miss the forthcoming Lancashire derby against fierce rivals Burnley, which will be a very difficult pill for Mowbray to take.

There is no specific timetable for his prospective return beyond 2027, implying he will be absent for at least eight weeks.

Ryan Alebiosu’s importance for Blackburn Rovers

Alebiosu started each of Rovers’ first 14 league games, and he has been one of Mowbray’s best players this season.

Going forward, the full-back has impressed, completing 0.85 dribbles per 90 and averaging 1.85 touches in the opposition area each game.

He contributed one goal and five assists in 39 Championship games last season, demonstrating his attacking threat, though he is yet to score or assist in 2026/27.

Ryan Alebiosu’s injury is a major blow to Blackburn Rovers and Tony Mowbray.

Alebiosu’s absence is a huge loss for Mowbray, as he has developed into a very reliable performer for the club.

And with a more inexperienced figure in Beyuku replacing the Nigerian, who hasn’t wowed in his cameo appearances so yet, there could be some short-term discomfort at Ewood Park while the French defender adjusts to the Championship.

The 20-year-old has only four substitute appearances to his name since joining in the summer, and Mowbray may want to find an alternative to throwing him straight into the starting lineup.

An eight-week injury requires the experienced coach to be innovative in dealing with this specific ailment situation.