Ex-Watford star involved in ‘Terrifying’ crash and rushed to hospital

Former Watford striker Rey Manaj has been involved in a car accident in Turkey, just hours after featuring for his current side Sivasspor. Fortunately, reports indicate the 28-year-old is out of danger.

Manaj had a brief stint at Watford during the 2022/23 campaign after arriving from Barcelona, where he had represented the Spanish club’s B team. His time at Vicarage Road was short-lived, managing one goal in six league appearances before a hamstring injury halted his momentum and his contract was eventually ended by mutual consent.

The Albanian forward has now made headlines for reasons away from football after being caught up in a road collision in Sivas. According to reports from The Sun, Manaj was taken to hospital following a frightening crash while travelling home from the club’s training ground.

The incident occurred after Sivasspor returned from a 1-1 draw against Adana Demirspor, a match in which he completed the full 90 minutes.

While the situation initially sparked concern, updates have confirmed that Manaj is not in serious danger, although he remained in hospital overnight for observation.

He had only rejoined Sivasspor at the end of January following a short spell with Al Sharjah. Since returning, Manaj has made an immediate impact, scoring twice in his opening three matches as the club battles in the lower half of Turkey’s second division.

At times like this, football understandably takes a back seat, and those connected with Watford and the wider game will simply be hoping for his swift recovery. The positive news that he is out of danger offers reassurance.

Manaj will undoubtedly be eager to resume playing as soon as possible, particularly at such a pivotal stage in his career. His return to Sivasspor provided familiarity and an opportunity to rediscover consistent form in a league where he has previously thrived.

Beyond club commitments, his focus will also be on international ambitions. Albania are aiming to secure a place at the upcoming World Cup in the United States, with a play-off against Poland awaiting them. The winner will then face either Sweden or Ukraine for a spot at the tournament.

The decisive fixture is scheduled for the end of March. Although Manaj is not always a guaranteed starter, his record of 44 caps and 11 international goals suggests he would likely feature if fully fit. Updates on his condition are expected in the coming days as he works towards a return to action.