Young promising player for Real Madrid, Marc Cucalon has been forced to end his football career at just 19 years old. This heartbreaking news comes more than two years after he got injured in a UEFA Youth League match against Celtic. The teenager tore his ACL during the game, and while he was recovering from surgery, a rare bacterial infection spread into the joint, making his situation worse.
Complications Lead to Premature Retirement
Still struggling with physical exercise, Cucalon has decided to retire from football after receiving a negative prognosis and following medical advice. He will now focus on his rehabilitation.
Known as the “Xabi Alonso of La Fabrica,” Cucalon was considered one of the top young talents at Real Madrid. Juvenil A coach Álvaro Arbeloa had big expectations for him and even made him captain of the U-19 team for the 2022-23 season.
The injury was expected to keep him off the field for six to nine months, but complications arose during surgery when he contracted a bacterial infection. This infection weakened his joints and hindered the healing process.
Marc Cucalon Penned A Heartfelt Goodbye On Social Media
Since the issue isn’t improving as quickly as hoped, Cucalon, with advice from his family and friends, has decided to end his professional football career. He confirmed his decision with a post on social media.
“I didn’t know how to start this letter. So I’ll do it by saying thank you to everyone. From the heart. For all the support you have given me during this time,” he started.
“After several complications, that injury has forced me to make the tough decision to say goodbye to football, at least in the way I had always dreamed of.”
Cucalon went on to say that this was not a sad farewell, but a happy one, as he had the chance to play for his dream club.
“Don’t get me wrong: this is not a sad farewell at all. After all, I think I have been truly privileged to have been part of the best club in the world and to have lived a dream. I’ve learned and matured as a person and as a player.”
Further, the 19-year-old thanked everyone who had been part of his journey, as well as his family and friends, for all their support during this difficult time.
Check out his Instagram post:
View this post on Instagram
ALSO READ: Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Australia Prepares A Bouncy Pitch for the Perth Test
