Nigeria defender Ryan Alebiosu has revealed how an unexplained knee condition kept him out of football for about two years during his teenage years, describing the experience as a depressing period that threatened his progress in the game.

The Blackburn Rovers right-back said the problem began when he was around 15, affecting both knees and leaving him unable to run or walk properly. The uncertainty surrounding the condition made it difficult for him and medical professionals to determine the appropriate treatment.

“They did not know what was going on. I could not run. I could not walk,” Alebiosu told the Lancashire Telegraph, recalling how doctors struggled to establish the cause of his pain or determine whether he required surgery. 

The Nigerian international described the enforced absence as emotionally difficult, particularly because he had to watch other young footballers continue their development while he waited for his condition to improve.

“Obviously, it was kind of depressing having about two years of not playing football because of this knee injury,” he said. 

Alebiosu explained that the problem was diagnosed as non-specific knee pain, with doctors unable to identify its precise cause. The lack of a clear diagnosis left him uncertain about his future and whether an operation would be necessary.

He said the frustration was intensified by his age and the feeling that his peers were moving forward while his own football development had stalled.

“It was frustrating because I was a kid and everyone was progressing and I am just waiting to see when this is going to go,” he recalled, adding that he continued to hope the condition would eventually settle. 

The pain gradually eased as he grew older, with Alebiosu saying his speed began to return when he was around 18. That improvement allowed him to resume his pursuit of professional football after a difficult period away from the game.

The 24-year-old developed through Arsenal’s system before gaining experience at Crewe Alexandra, Kilmarnock, Belgian side Kortrijk and St Mirren in Scotland. He joined Blackburn Rovers in 2025 and has since become a regular option at right-back and right wing-back. 

Alebiosu’s club progress also brought international recognition. He made his Super Eagles debut against Uganda at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on December 30, playing the full match in Nigeria’s 3-1 victory. 

The defender believes regular football has played a major role in his development, allowing him to build consistency and improve his performances.

“Playing week in week out, establishing myself a bit, I feel like there has been a lot of improvement in my game,” he said. 

Despite his progress, Alebiosu acknowledged the physical demands of competing regularly in England’s Championship, where the running required in his position places considerable strain on his body.

He said taking time to rest and recover has helped him manage the demands of the season and address physical issues that arise from regular competition.

“With all the running I do, taking that time off to rest certain parts of my body, certain things that I have been going through body-wise, it has been brilliant,” he added. 

Alebiosu’s journey from an unexplained knee condition that prevented him from playing as a teenager to establishing himself in professional football highlights the uncertainty young players can face when injuries interrupt their development.

His experience also reflect the importance of patience, recovery and sustained support as young footballers navigate setbacks on the road to professional careers.