Real Madrid legend Marcelo has broken his silence after inadvertently stomping Luciano Sanchez’s leg during a Copa Libertadores match. The fullback injured the Argentine during the 54th minute of the game between Fluminese and Argentinos Juniors. The Brazilian immediately saw red for the challenge, following which he left the pitch in tears.
Clips of the incident have gone viral online, displaying the gruesome manner in which Sanchez’s leg was impacted. The 29-year-old stretched his foot to dispossess Marcelo, who quickly rolled the ball out of the Argentine’s reach.
Unfortunately, the Brazilian stepped on Sanchez’s foot in the process, flattening it in a disturbing fashion. The 35-year-old immediately halted play and called for medical attention for Sanchez.
😢 Marcelo's heart-wrenching moment on the pitch! He couldn't hold back the tears after an accidental leg-breaking collision with his opponent. 💔
— The FTBL Index 🎙 ⚽ (@TheFootballInd) August 2, 2023
The 29-year-old was stretched off the pitch following the challenge, while the referee brandished a red card for Marcelo. The Selecao star left the field in tears, clearly affected by his role in the injury.
After full-time, a medical report revealed that Sanchez had suffered a full dislocation. His expected recovery time is said to be between ‘8-12 months’. However, the injury could possibly be career-ending as well.
Marcelo issues a heartfelt apology to Luciana Sanchez
Marcelo took to his social media accounts and issued an apology to Luciano Sanchez. The 35-year-old wrote, “I lived a very tough moment on the pitch today. With no intention, I injured a fellow footballer. I want to wish you the best possible recovery, Luciano Sánchez.”
His apology was received positively by Argentinos Juniors, who thanked the club, and the player for their concern.
The fullback also received support from his former teammates, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Vinicius Jr., and Fede Valverde. Due to his suspension, Marcelo will not be available for Fluminese during the second leg of the Round of 16 tie against Argentinos Juniors.
