Ronald Araujo’s departure from Uruguay’s World Cup squad has caused drama ahead of kick-off.
Araujo headed back to his club, Barcelona, on Monday after an injury in training, but so far only temporarily.
In a statement, the Uruguayan football federation (AUF) said: “To help resolve a muscle strain, the player will receive medical treatment from professionals who have treated him previously.
“The AUF’s coaching staff and medical team agreed with this decision.”
With the situation being rather unusual, it’s taken another strange turn with the intervention of a family member.
Responding to one update on social media, Araujo’s brother, Maikel, wrote: “Thanks for injuring the players just days before the World Cup.”
A report from Uruguayan journalist Rodri Vázquez further points the finger at head coach Marcelo Bielsa.
He reports that Araujo arrived at the Uruguay camp with a swollen calf and specific training plan from Barcelona.
However, Bielsa pushed him too hard, resulting in a relapse that requires specialist treatment.
Luckily for Uruguay, they’re one of the last teams to kick-off at the World Cup, not playing until June 16th against Saudi Arabia.
Further to Araujo’s issue, Flamengo’s Giorgian de Arrascaeta is also injured and expected to miss the opener.
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