The present research project aims to harness neural plasticity to improve motor performance as well as functional recovery in injured athletes after anterior cruciate ligament surgery. This will be achieved through a combined approach involving both endogenous and exogenous stimulation of the central nervous system. At the endogenous level, motor Imagery (MI), defined as the mental simulation of movement without intention to physical execution, will be used to activate brain and spinal motor networks involved in voluntary control. At the exogenous level, we will apply transcutaneous electrical stimulation to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (tVNS), which has shown promising therapeutic potential when coupled with behavioral training. However, the use of tVNS as a neuromodulatory technique to enhance motor performance through MI remains largely unexplored.