Azor Matusiwa
IPS
Center Midfielder
Deep-Lying Playmaker
Apr 28, 1998 (28)
Right
5'8"
159 lb
Still building fitness
Matusiwa (undisclosed) is waiting to build fitness in training before Ipswich Town feels comfortable getting him minutes, although he is an option for Saturday's clash against Everton, according to manager Gary O'Neil, per East Anglian. "We're just waiting for him (Azor) to get enough reps in in training to feel comfortable. He's doing everything, he's doing 11 v 11 on the grass with the guys but he has been out for quite a while so it's not one we want to throw back in. We have lots of midfielders and lots of players fit so it's trying to find the right moment for him and the team. He is available for tomorrow but we haven't decided whether he will play a part in it or not yet."
Analysis: Matusiwa had missed the start of the season following the surgery he underwent at the end of last season and is close to make his return on the pitch. The midfielder still has to build on his fitness and the club will decide if they extend the wait for his first minutes of the season. His potential involvement now remains uncertain heading into Saturday's match against Everton, with the club taking a measured approach to reintegrating him.
Not playing in opener
Matusiwa (undisclosed) won't be an option for Saturday's game against Sunderland, according to manager Gary O'Neil. "[Azor] Matusiwa and Jack Taylor are the only two expected to miss out. They aren't ready for this game."
Analysis: Matusiwa underwent muscle surgery at the end of the 2025/26 season, and while he's been progressing in his return, this season opener against the Black Cats will ultimately come too soon for him. Matusiwa's next chance to feature will come against Manchester United on Sunday, Aug. 30. With Matusiwa sidelined, expect Florentino Luis (undisclosed) and Sasa Lukic to start in central midfield.
Muscle surgery successful
Matusiwa (muscular) has undergone a successful operation on a muscle injury following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season and will now recuperate over the summer, the club announced.
Analysis: Matusiwa was the undisputed defensive midfield engine of Ipswich's promotion-winning campaign, accumulating 3,862 Championship minutes across the season with one goal and three assists that underlined his consistent quality throughout the campaign. The surgery brings a positive resolution to what had been a managed fitness issue in the final stages of the season, and Ipswich will be hopeful of having him fully available for their return to the Premier League.
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