Ahead of the 2023 AFCON, Kompany announced that the club’s medical team advised Foster to remain in a familiar environment due to his mental health issues. These issues had kept the 23-year-old sidelined in England for seven weeks while seeking professional help. As a result, Foster will not be able to join his international teammates in the Ivory Coast due to a groin injury.
Kompany explained that mental fitness and physical fitness are different, and emphasized the importance of being in the right headspace to participate in a tournament. He expressed understanding for Foster’s situation, stating that the club is part of his rehabilitation and support system. Kompany also mentioned that they have documentation available to explain the situation to governing bodies, and are willing to share it when necessary.
Foster has undergone surgery for his groin injury and will be unavailable for Burnley for an extended period.