Aymen Barkok (foto: Getty Images)
In a disturbing incident over the weekend, Moroccan international Aymen Barkok became the victim of a brutal assault in a Berlin bar.
The 25-year-old midfielder, who is currently on loan at Hertha Berlin from Mainz, suffered significant facial injuries that required immediate surgical intervention on Sunday.
The attack, which occurred overnight from Saturday to Sunday, has left Barkok with a lengthy recovery period ahead, effectively ending his football season. Since joining Hertha, Barkok has made 13 appearances and scored one goal, while also being a regular player for the Moroccan national team, having made his debut in 2020.
Hertha BSC released a statement expressing shock and dismay at the attack: "We were horrified to learn that our player Aymen Barkok was physically attacked in a Berlin bar last night and had to be taken to the hospital with facial injuries. Aymen underwent successful surgery on Sunday. We wish him a speedy recovery!"
This violent incident underscores the risks professional athletes can face off the field and has left both his club and fans deeply concerned for his health and future in football.