Leicester City attacker Jutta Rantala is set to undergo knee surgery after sustaining a meniscus issue during their 4-1 loss to Brighton.
It represents a setback for the 26-year-old, who missed the majority of last season because of damage to her other knee.
A statement on Leicester’s website read: “We can confirm that striker Jutta Rantala will unfortunately be sidelined for an extended period after suffering a meniscus injury in Sunday’s game at Brighton.”
It marks the newest case in a worrying run of major knee problems in the WSL, with players such as England forward Michelle Agyemang also affected.
How did Leicester striker Jutta Rantala pick up her latest knee injury?
Leicester City striker Jutta Rantala sustained the problem in the second half of their 4-1 defeat to Brighton.
The Finnish attacker leapt over a challenge and, upon landing, seemed to have her studs trapped in the surface.
Her knee then appeared to rotate awkwardly, sending her to the turf before receiving immediate medical attention.
She was assisted back to her feet and looked visibly distressed as she made her way down the tunnel.
Rantala, who featured only three times last season due to her previous knee setback, returned to action with Finland at Euro 2025. She made substitute appearances in their win over Iceland, loss to Norway and draw with Switzerland.
Rantala’s Leicester City journey:
Rantala arrived at Leicester in the summer of 2023 and delivered an outstanding debut season at the King Power Stadium.
The Finnish attacker netted six goals in her first WSL campaign and was voted the club’s Player of the Season.
However, her second season ended after just three outings, following a knee injury in October 2024.
Rantala has been gradually reintroduced this term, often featuring from the bench for the Foxes.
She registered a goal and two assists on her return to the starting lineup against Ipswich in the Women’s League Cup in September.
Rantala also struck in the 1-0 triumph over the London City Lionesses in October and added an assist against Brighton before being forced off with her injury.
What lies ahead for Leicester City?
The Foxes meet Crystal Palace in the Women’s League Cup on Sunday at 3pm.
Rick Passmoor’s squad require only a point to secure top spot in Group C and advance into Tuesday’s Women’s League Cup draw.
The Foxes won’t return to WSL action until December 7th, when they take on league leaders Manchester City at the King Power Stadium.