Bradford City midfielder Nick Powell will miss the rest of 2025 after undergoing hamstring surgery in London.
The 31-year-old has been ruled out for several months in what manager Graham Alexander described as a “real blow” for both the player and the club.
Alexander Calls It a Blow
Powell, who joined Bradford in August after leaving Stockport County, has played just 144 minutes across six appearances this season. His comeback from previous injury issues had been handled carefully by the Bantams’ medical staff, but the midfielder suffered another setback during training earlier this month.
News of another injury setback for Nick Powell – he has had wretched luck … ⤵️@Bradford_TandA #bcafc https://t.co/SodDf1Xzjh
— Simon (P)arker (@ParkerTandA) October 21, 2025
Alexander confirmed that scans revealed the full extent of the damage, leading to the decision for surgery.
“He’s going to be out for a couple of months at least,” said Alexander. “That’s a bit of a blow for Nick and obviously ourselves. That was the confirmation we got from the scan and then the specialist had a look at it.”
Powell’s longest outing came during the Carabao Cup tie at Newcastle United, where he completed the first half before being withdrawn at the interval. Since then, he has not featured in any competitive fixture.
The length of his contract at Valley Parade has not been made public, but it is understood to run until the end of the current season. His injury history was one reason for the club’s gradual integration plan, with Powell receiving incremental playing time to rebuild match sharpness.
Bradford Squad Look Thin As Injuries Mount
Alexander expressed sympathy for the former Manchester United academy graduate, who had shown promise in flashes since his arrival.
“That’s why we took our time with him when he came in with us,” the manager added. “We were giving him extra minutes each time and then talking to him. It’s just one of those things unfortunately. It’s come at a really difficult time for us all and certainly Nick.”
When it comes to honesty, recent Bradford City signing Nick Powell is right up there in terms of footballers#bcafc | @LeonWobYP https://t.co/AujUKo1flm
— Yorkshire Post Sport (@YPSport) September 30, 2025
The club expect Powell to receive full medical care from specialists before beginning a structured rehabilitation programme. His absence further depletes Bradford’s creative options in midfield, a department already short on depth following recent injuries.
There was, however, some encouraging news elsewhere in the squad. Defender Matt Pennington could resume training this week after missing three matches with concussion. The former Everton man reported delayed symptoms following the defeat to Blackpool but has now completed the necessary medical assessments.
“We’re going to see if he can train with us properly,” said Alexander. “If so, he will potentially be available for Saturday – if not, it will be the week after.”
Bradford City continue to look for consistency in League One as they adapt to a demanding fixture schedule. Powell’s recovery will now be closely monitored over the coming months, with hopes that he can make a return early in the new year.
