- President of CONMEBOL extends condolences
Juan Izquierdo, a 27-year-old football player from Uruguay, passed unexpectedly after suffering a heart arrest on August 22 during a Copa Libertadores match against São Paulo.
His club, Nacional, confirmed the news on X, expressing their profound sorrow and extending condolences to his family and loved ones.
“It is with the deepest sorrow and shock in our hearts that the Club Nacional announces the death of our beloved player Juan Izquierdo,” the statement read.
“We express our most sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones. All of Nacional is in mourning for his irreparable loss.”
Alejandro Domínguez, president of CONMEBOL, also offered his condolences, stating, “South American football is in mourning.” São Paulo expressed deep sadness, calling it a “sad day for football.”
Izquierdo collapsed during the 84th minute of the match and was immediately transported to Hospital Albert Einstein. The hospital later confirmed he suffered “cardiorespiratory arrest associated with his cardiac arrhythmia.” Despite medical efforts, including being placed on a ventilator, Izquierdo’s condition worsened.
São Paulo players showed their solidarity by wearing shirts honouring Izquierdo, and the Uruguayan football leagues postponed matches in response to the incident.
During his career, the defender played for a number of Uruguayan clubs, including Liverpool, Cerro, Peñarol, and Montevideo Wanderers. Liverpool won the league title in 2023 with the defender’s help. This year, he was back at Nacional, vying for a starting spot.