Football was shaken by tragic news last Tuesday (27). Juan Izquierdo, defender for Nacional-URU, passed away after fighting for five days in the Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo.
The player suffered a cardiac arrest due to arrhythmia during the match against São Paulo, which was part of the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores. The incident moved colleagues, fans, and the entire sports community. The CBF announced a minute of silence in matches on Wednesday and Thursday.
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Cause of Izquierdo’s death
According to the medical bulletin released by the hospital, the cause of death was severe encephalopathy resulting from a cardiorespiratory arrest associated with cardiac arrhythmia.
Last Sunday (25), doctors had already reported a “progression of brain impairment” and an “increase in intracranial pressure,” indicating a delicate clinical picture.
What is cardiac arrhythmia?
Cardiac arrhythmia, the condition that affected Izquierdo, is a change in the rhythm of the heartbeats, which can become irregular, faster (tachycardia), or slower (bradycardia) than normal. Although often asymptomatic, arrhythmia can cause symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, and dizziness.
The causes vary and include previous heart problems, as well as conditions like thyroid dysfunction, anemia, dehydration, infections, stress, and anxiety. A common type of arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation, which can lead to cardiac remodeling, further complicating the management of the condition.
Statement from Nacional-URU
Nacional, the club where Izquierdo built his career, expressed deep sorrow in an official statement, highlighting the impact of the loss on the team and the community.
“With the deepest pain and impact in our hearts, the Club Nacional de Football announces the death of our dear player Juan Izquierdo. We express our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and relatives. All of Nacional is mourning this irreparable loss. Rest in peace, Juan; you will be with us forever,” declared the club.
