The family of Bordeaux’s Alberth Elis has announced that the striker is emerging from an induced coma and appears to be slowly recuperating from a severe head injury.
They further mentioned their cautious approach, emphasizing that the upcoming days will be pivotal.
During a French Ligue 2 match last Saturday, Honduras international Elis, aged 28, collided heads with Guingamp defender Donatien Gomis within the first 40 seconds.
Following the incident, Bordeaux confirmed on Sunday that Elis underwent surgery.
In a statement released by Bordeaux on Wednesday, Elis’ family said: “We are happy to share with you the first encouraging signs: Alberth is waking up and seems to be gradually recovering.
“However, we want to remain cautious about the evolution of his condition, since the next few days will be crucial.
“We want to thank you for your support, your words of encouragement, your prayers, and we especially want to thank the medical teams for their care.
“Alberth is a fighter, we will keep you informed of his status as soon as possible.”
Elis, who has earned 64 caps for Honduras and netted 13 goals, transitioned to Europe after a three-year spell with Major League Soccer club Houston Dynamo, opting to join Boavista.
Following a single season in Portugal, he made a move to Bordeaux, initially on loan, where he has amassed 60 appearances and scored 15 goals since his arrival in 2021. Additionally, he spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Brest.