Nacional defender Juan Izquierdo has died at the age of 27, just days after collapsing on the field, his club announced on Tuesday evening. Izquierdo suffered cardiac arrest last Thursday during a Copa Libertadores match in Sao Paulo, Brazil against Sao Paulo. After being resuscitated, Izquierdo was taken to hospital in critical condition, where his condition worsened as he required a ventilator, doctors at Albert Einstein Hospital said.
“It is with the deepest pain and shock in our hearts that Club Nacional de Football announces the passing of our beloved player Juan Izquierdo. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.” said the club on X. “The whole of Nacional mourns his irreparable loss. RIP. Juan, you will be with us forever.”
Numerous players around the world have expressed their support over the past week after he was hospitalized. Fellow Uruguayan Luis Suarez, who played for Nacional, wore a shirt reading ‘Fuerza, Juan’ during the Inter Miami match this weekend, which gave his compatriot strength. Former Uruguay captain Diego Lugano visited the hospital on Monday along with other members of the football community and Izquierdo’s family. Uruguayan football matches were postponed this weekend, with Sao Paulo’s players wearing support shirts during their victory at the weekend.
Izquierdo, who leaves behind a wife and two children, played for San Luis in Liga MX and also played for Penarol, Wanderers, Liverpool and Cerro in Uruguay.
