Ecuador’s national team has been forced to withdraw two key members of its Atlético Mineiro contingent due to confirmed injuries, leaving only Pervis Preciado available for the upcoming international friendlies. The Ecuadorian Football Federation announced late Tuesday that medical tests revealed issues for both Alan Franco and Alan Minda, prompting their immediate removal from the squad. Consequently, the Galo trio will not feature in the matches against Costa Rica and Bolivia, a significant setback for a squad that had hoped to maintain match sharpness during the break.
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The absence of Franco and Minda carries substantial weight for Atlético Mineiro, as the club prepares for a pivotal stretch of the season. The players are scheduled to return to Brazil for further assessment by the club’s medical staff, a process that will determine their fitness for the immediate future. Atlético’s next competitive fixture is a Brasileirão away visit to Mirassol on Saturday, the 35th round of the league. This match serves as the final domestic test before the team shifts its full focus to continental glory.
With the Copa Sudamericana final against Boca Juniors looming on the following Saturday, the timing of these injuries is critical for Atlético Mineiro’s campaign. The club must now manage the recovery timelines of Franco and Minda carefully to ensure they are ready for the high-stakes decider. For Ecuador, the loss of these two defenders weakens their defensive options for the friendlies, but the priority remains on protecting the long-term health of players who are central to Atlético’s bid to lift the trophy.
Source: Yahoo Sports
