Fluminense were able to snatch a draw in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 16, but their trip to Buenos Aires was overshadowed by an unfortunate situation that resulted in a horrible injury for Argentinos Juniors right-back Luciano Sanchez. Marcelo accidentally stomped on the defender’s leg, producing a horrible scene at the Diego Armando Maradona stadium.
The Brazilian left-back immediately realized the impact of his challenge, which resulted in a red card and also left him in tears, being aware of how serious Sanchez’s injury could be. It was definitely a sad situation but everyone understood Marcelo had no intention to harm the Argentine footballer, and he apologized both in person and on social media.
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Marcelo apologizes after Luciano Sanchez’s ugly injury
“Today I have had to live through a very difficult moment on the pitch. I have inadvertently injured a colleague. I want to wish you the best possible recovery, Luciano Sánchez. All the strength in the world!,” the former Real Madrid superstar wrote on Twitter.
Argentinos Juniors appreciated Marcelo’s words, replying “We are rivals, not enemies. Thank you Marcelo and to all Fluminense for your concern.”
#AAAJ Somos rivales, no enemigos. Gracias @MarceloM12 y a todo @FluminenseFC por su preocupación ❤️ https://t.co/bHuHIaEcWu
— Argentinos Juniors (@AAAJoficial) August 2, 2023
Flu also wished a speedy recovery for Sanchez. “Fluminense FC sympathizes with and wishes a prompt recovery to defender Luciano Sánchez, from Argentinos Juniors, injured in an accidental move in tonight’s match.”
The Argentine club later informed Sanchez dislocated his left knee, which would keep him on the sidelines between 8 and 12 months. Marcelo had no intention to break his leg, so he’s also devastated by this situation. Hopefully, they can meet again on the pitch some day.
Sensitive video: Sanchez’s horrible injury
⚠️ L’infortunio di Sanchez è impressionante. Sfortunatissimo contrasto con Marcelo (poi espulso) che, visto quanto successo all’avversario, si dispera fino alle lacrimepic.twitter.com/RLVFJwtVil
— Giacomo Cobianchi (@G_Cobianchi) August 2, 2023
