URUGUAYAN footballer Juan Izquierdo has died at the age of 27 after collapsing on the pitch during a Copa Libertadores match.
And tributes have poured in for the ace, with former Manchester United star Diego Forlan leading the way.
The defender was playing for Nacional in their last 16 tie against Sao Paolo when tragedy struck last week.
Izquierdo dropped to the ground in the second leg at the Morumbi Stadium in Brazil on August 22 .
The star suffered “cardiorespiratory arrest associated with his cardiac arrhythmia” in the 84th minute of the match, which Sao Paolo won 2-0.
And he was rushed to hospital where he was put on ventilator and neurological critical care.
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Uruguay’s domestic leagues postponed their games at the weekend, while Sao Paolo players paid tribute to Izquierdo in their Brazilian league win over Vitoria on Sunday.
However, Nacional have now confirmed that Izqueirdo has sadly passed away.
A statement read: “It is with the deepest sorrow and shock in our hearts that the Club Nacional announces the death of our beloved player Juan Izquierdo.
“We express our most sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.
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“All of Nacional is in mourning for his irreparable loss.
“RIP Juan, you will be with us forever.”
South American football chief Alejandro Dominguez said: “South American football is in mourning,”
While Sao Paolo called it a “sad day for football.”
Former United striker and Uruguay icon Forlan paid tribute, saying: “How sad. My deepest condolences to his family.”
A fan declared: “Football is in mourning. RIP, lots of strength to all his family.”
Brazilian club Fluminense, who recently signed Thiago Silva from Chelsea, said: “Our condolences to everyone at Nacional.”
Another fan added: “Strength to his family and all the fans of Nacional, may he rest in peace.”
Izquierdo spent almost all og his club career in Uruguay, playing for sides including Penarol, Montevideo Warrios and Liverpool FC.
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He enjoyed a brief spell with Mexican side Atletico san Luis in 2021 before returning to his homeland.
And the ace was in his second spell with Nacional following a brief stint with the giants in 2022.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
