Just as Athletico Paranaense seemed to be cruising towards a glorious return to Série A, football`s cruel hand delivered a stark reminder of its unpredictable nature. A pivotal player, instrumental in their recent surge, now faces a significant spell on the sidelines, casting a shadow of doubt over the club`s well-laid plans.
A Crucial Cog Falls Silent: Esquivel`s Injury Blow
The news hit like a thunderclap: Esquivel, Athletico Paranaense`s dynamic left-back, is sidelined for an estimated 30 to 40 days. A Grade 2 muscle tear in his right thigh, sustained during Thursday`s training session, has condemned the 23-year-old to the treatment room. For those counting, that`s essentially the entire month of October, a period critical for any team with eyes on the top flight. The timing is, of course, impeccably inconvenient, coinciding with the most decisive phase of the Série B campaign.
This isn`t Esquivel`s first dance with injury this season; he only made his debut in April after battling pubalgia and an ankle issue. One might almost suspect the universe has a particular fondness for testing his resolve, or perhaps, for meticulously challenging Athletico`s squad depth.
Manager`s Dilemma: Navigating a Thin Left Flank
For manager Odair Hellmann, this development is less a bump in the road and more a sudden chasm opening up. With Fernando as the sole recognized senior left-back and young Léo Derik away on international duty with Brazil`s U20 squad, Hellmann faces a classic footballing conundrum: innovate or lament. The options are sparse, ranging from relying heavily on Fernando (who, one hopes, is now encased in bubble wrap) to improvising with players from other positions, such as Léo Pelé, Dudu, Patrick, Mendoza, or Leozinho. It`s a testament to the unpredictable nature of football management – one moment you`re strategizing for opponents, the next you`re scouting your roster for emergency conversions.
The Architect of Assists: Esquivel`s Undeniable Value
Esquivel isn`t just another name on the team sheet; he`s a linchpin. Having featured in 25 matches this season, starting 24, his solitary goal and five assists make him the team`s second-highest assist provider, just behind midfielder Zapelli. His importance extends beyond statistics; his dynamic play has been central to Athletico`s attacking thrust down the left flank. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, both defensively and in terms of creating opportunities.
It`s also worth noting that top clubs like River Plate were reportedly keen on his services, with Athletico famously fending off multiple substantial bids earlier this year—a testament to his undeniable talent and crucial role within the squad. One can only imagine the sigh of relief at River Plate`s headquarters upon hearing the news, though perhaps it`s premature to consider any future negotiations given his current plight.
Athletico`s Ascent and the Road Ahead
The timing, as always, adds a layer of bitter irony. Athletico has been on a tear, enjoying an eight-game unbeaten run, including seven consecutive victories, catapulting them from 13th to a coveted 4th position in the Série B standings with 48 points. Their promotion chances, according to the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), stand at a robust 72.5%. They were, by all accounts, on course for a well-deserved return to Brazil`s top flight.
Esquivel`s recovery timeline means he will miss at least five crucial matches in October:
- Atlético-GO (away)
- Remo (away)
- Avaí (home)
- Coritiba (away)
- Amazonas (home)
A return for the November 1st clash against Goiás is a remote possibility, but the more realistic expectation is for him to rejoin for the final three rounds of the season.
A Silver Lining, Perhaps? Terán`s Return
While the focus is heavily on Esquivel, there`s a minor glimmer of relief with news that center-back Carlos Terán is making good progress on his Grade 1 adductor injury. Having missed the last match, Terán has commenced his physical transition back to the field and is expected to be available around mid-October, potentially for the Avaí fixture. One less headache for Hellmann, perhaps, but the left-back void remains a pressing concern.
The Unpredictable Game
Football, in its essence, is a narrative of challenges and resilience. For Athletico Paranaense, Esquivel`s injury marks an unexpected plot twist in their pursuit of Série A glory. The test now lies in their collective ability to adapt, for the show, as they say, must go on. And with promotion hanging in the balance, a lot more than just individual talent will be needed to navigate this unforeseen obstacle. The coming weeks will undoubtedly reveal the true depth and character of the Furacão.
