FC defender, Rafael Czichos will be operated on the injured area of his cervical spine following his injury against Hertha BSC. Czichos made the decision after discussions with the team doctors and a specialist.

After a coming together with Marko Grujic, Rafael Czichos had to come off on a stretcher. In Berlin in the Virchow-Klinikum, he underwent different tests, which showed up an injury to an area of the cervical spine.

Back in Köln, the two FC team doctors, Dr. Peter Schäferhoff, and Dr. Paul Klein, he underwent more tests and was seen by a specialist. In discussions with the doctors and the club, Czichos decided on an operation, which will improve the healing process.

“Our medical department and specialists for injuries in this area are convinced that an operation is the right decision, with an eye on the healing process. We wish Rafa all the best for the operation and for his recovery,” said FC managing director, Horst Heldt.

Czichos came to Geißbockheim on Tuesday before his visit to the doctors: “Obviously I’m sad that I won’t be able to be with the team on the pitch in the coming weeks. But the most important thing is that the injury heals well and I have full trust in our doctors. Then I can begin the rehab as quickly as possible.”

Before the operation on Friday, the defender will take time out and has enough time to “answer the many messages. The thoughts and well wishes from all sides have helped a lot. Thank you to all our fans! Even when I’m not personally on social media, I have heard about it and for that I’m very thankful for that.”