Nemanja Kovanusic injured: Étoile Charleville looking for medical replacement

After suffering a torn pectoral muscle on September 5 during a friendly match against Val-de-Seine, Nemanja Kovanusic (2.05m, 32 years old) had to undergo surgery. The Étoile de Charleville-Mézières center, who was about to start his eleventh season in France, underwent surgery last Friday in Reims. His absence is estimated at minimum four months, which seriously compromises his 2025-2026 season in Nationale 1 (NM1).

A major setback for Étoile

Kovanusic had been one of the key players in keeping the team in the division last season. In 2024-2025, he averaged 13.4 points with 59.8% shooting accuracy (65.1% for 2-pointers), 6.2 rebounds and 15 in evaluation in just 20 minutes of play. These statistics demonstrate his importance in the team’s system.

At 32, the Serbian center (2.05m), who had rarely been affected by injuries until now, sees his return to the Ardennes region come to an abrupt halt. « It’s a major blow for him and for Étoile, » commented the club, which announced the bad news after facing Metz in the French Cup and Orchies in the championship.

Searching for a medical replacement

Facing this void in the paint, the club management has already begun searching for a medical replacement. The necessary documents have been sent to the federation and several options are being considered. The goal is to conclude quickly in order to have interior reinforcement by Friday’s home game against Boulogne at the Arena for the second round of Nationale 1.

Meanwhile, the staff, teammates, volunteers and club partners wish « lots of courage and a good recovery to Nemanja, » who leaves behind a huge void both athletically and personally.