BUENOS AIRES – Edinson Cavani’s ongoing battle with physical issues continues to cast a shadow over Boca Juniors, leaving the club and its supporters uncertain about the veteran striker’s future. The 39-year-old Uruguayan international, a key figure when fit, is currently recovering from treatment on his back, with the possibility of surgery looming, according to reports from Argentina.
The situation surrounding Cavani has become increasingly concerning for Los Xeneizes. While he remains a revered figure at La Bombonera, his availability has been limited and his impact on the pitch diminished by recurring problems. The club is carefully monitoring his progress, hoping to avoid a more invasive solution, but the path forward remains unclear.
Second Blockade and a Painful Wait
Journalist Ezequiel Sosa, speaking on TyC Sports, detailed the current state of affairs. “It’s difficult to establish timelines with Cavani. He underwent a second blockade,” Sosa reported. “They’re going to push him to see if he experiences pain.” Cavani initially sustained the back injury last year, and recovery has proven far more challenging than anticipated.
The next steps are crucial. If the latest infiltration doesn’t alleviate the pain, a surgical intervention could become necessary. “If it doesn’t perform, he’ll gradually rejoin the group and increase his minutes. If the infiltration fails, a decision will have to be made, which could be surgery,” Sosa explained. “It’s difficult to say when he’ll be available again.”
Emiliano Raddi, also speaking to TyC Sports, emphasized the focus on the Copa Libertadores. “Regarding Cavani, he’s a player who received a second blockade. He’s working with the Copa Libertadores in mind,” Raddi stated. “When he feels better, he needs to regain his football rhythm. He’s working more on the physical side, it’s day by day. Pain in that area can condition him.”
Zeballos’ Return Offers a Bright Spot
Amidst the concerns surrounding Cavani, there’s positive news regarding another Boca Juniors player. Young winger Valentín “Changuito” Zeballos is nearing a return from a significant tear that has kept him sidelined. Sosa reported that the plan is to have Zeballos available for the first match of the Copa Libertadores in April.
“They’re thinking about having Changuito Zeballos ready for the first Copa Libertadores match in April,” Sosa said. “The timeline could be accelerated, but that’s the idea. He has two or three weeks of recovery left.”
Zeballos’ absence prompted a tactical shift from Boca, with a move towards a double-striker formation and an attacking midfielder behind them. His return will undoubtedly create a selection dilemma for coach Carlos Bielsa. “When he returns, some injustice will be committed. The question is who comes out, if everyone maintains their level. Someone will end up paying the price. It could be one of the two strikers. What I can’t imagine is Zeballos returning to the bench; he’ll go straight back into the starting eleven,” Sosa added.
Cavani’s Career to Date
Edinson Cavani, born February 14, 1987, in Salto, Uruguay, has enjoyed a distinguished career, playing for clubs across Europe and now in Argentina. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is estimated at €500k. He began his professional journey with Danubio in Uruguay before moving to Palermo in Italy in 2007. Subsequent spells at Napoli, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Valencia preceded his move to Boca Juniors in 2023. He currently plays as a striker for Boca Juniors, wearing the number 10 shirt.
Cavani has also been a key player for the Uruguayan national team, earning 136 caps and scoring 58 goals. He was part of the Uruguay squad that won the Copa América in 2011. Known as “El Matador,” he is widely regarded as one of the best strikers of his generation, having won numerous league titles and domestic cups throughout his career. His Wikipedia page details his extensive career achievements.
The uncertainty surrounding Cavani’s fitness is a significant blow to Boca Juniors as they prepare for a crucial period in the season, including their Copa Libertadores campaign. The club will be hoping for a positive response to the latest treatment, but the possibility of surgery remains a real concern. Fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on the striker’s condition, hoping to see “El Matador” back on the pitch soon.
Boca Juniors will continue to assess Cavani’s condition daily, with the Copa Libertadores looming large on the horizon. The next official update on his fitness is expected early next week. Fans can follow Boca Juniors’ official Twitter account, @bocajrsoficial, for the latest news.
