LaLiga’s return has brought a setback for Pellegrini. Junior Firpo came off after ten minutes of the match between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, and Real Betis will wait for his return to Seville to assess his condition.
The full-back had already been carrying discomfort after the previous match against Trinidad and Tobago. He told the press in his country that he felt “a small strain, stronger than expected”, which led him to ask to be substituted. The extent of the injury remains to be established: medical tests are planned in Seville after his return journey on Tuesday. Firpo will not play against Nicaragua on Monday.
The player also criticised the new format of international breaks and the buildup of matches. “Before, we played two matches in ten days, and that was better than playing four in eleven,” he said.
The injury comes ahead of a demanding spell for Betis, who are due to play nine matches in LaLiga, the Champions League and the Copa del Rey in 29 days. Firpo’s medical assessment will help Real Betis gauge the significance of the setback as that run approaches.
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