San Lorenzo Suffer Double Injury Blow as Cerutti and Hernández Face Lengthy Layoffs

Buenos Aires, Argentina – San Lorenzo are reeling after confirmation that key players Ezequiel Cerutti and Gastón Hernández both suffered significant knee injuries during their 1-1 draw with Boca Juniors on Tuesday. The news, confirmed Thursday, deals a substantial blow to Damián Ayude’s squad as they navigate the Apertura tournament.

Ezequiel Cerutti, known as “Pocho” to fans, was the first to be forced off the pitch in the 22nd minute. While attempting a flick with his right foot, he landed awkwardly, immediately signaling distress and requiring assistance from teammate Adam Bareiro to leave the field. Medical examinations revealed a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. This marks the second time Cerutti has suffered an ACL injury, having previously sustained a similar injury to his left knee in 2023.

Cerutti is helped off the field by Adam Bareiro during Tuesday’s match against Boca Juniors. (Photos Emmanuel Fernández).

The situation worsened for San Lorenzo in the 66th minute when captain Gastón Hernández, also known as “Tonga,” was substituted after a collision. He immediately indicated discomfort in his left knee. Subsequent tests confirmed a rupture of the ligamentary plastics of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. This is the third ACL injury of Hernández’s career. he previously suffered a similar injury to the same knee in 2021 while playing for San Martín de San Juan and another to his right knee in 2024.

Both players will require surgery to repair the damage, followed by an extensive period of rehabilitation. The club anticipates that both Cerutti and Hernández will be sidelined for approximately six to eight months, significantly impacting San Lorenzo’s options for the remainder of the season.

Gastón Hernández previously suffered a similar injury to his left knee in 2021. (Photos Emmanuel Fernández).

Impact on San Lorenzo’s Squad

The loss of Cerutti and Hernández represents a significant setback for coach Damián Ayude. Hernández, the team captain, provides leadership and experience in defense, while Cerutti is a dynamic attacking threat. San Lorenzo will now be forced to reshuffle their lineup and potentially explore options in the transfer market to fill the void left by the injured duo. The club has the opportunity to bring in two players to bolster their squad, given the extended absences of Cerutti and Hernández.

According to a statement released by San Lorenzo, “We regret to inform you that, after undergoing the corresponding medical studies, Ezequiel Cerutti suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and Gastón Hernández suffered a rupture of the ligamentary plastics of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Both players will undergo surgery.”

The club continued, “Tonga and Pocho are two references for our club, both on and off the field, and we will be with them throughout the recovery process. Force guys, San Lorenzo is with you!”

Lamentamos comunicar que luego de realizarse los estudios médicos correspondientes, Ezequiel Cerutti sufrió ruptura de ligamento cruzado anterior de rodilla derecha y Gastón Hernandez ruptura de plástica ligamentaria del cruzado anterior de rodilla izquierda. Ambos jugadores… pic.twitter.com/tfRvp51Epi

— San Lorenzo (@SanLorenzo) March 12, 2026

The injuries arrive at a critical juncture in the Apertura tournament, with San Lorenzo aiming to build momentum and challenge for the title. The team will require to demonstrate resilience and depth as they navigate this challenging period. The club’s medical staff will closely monitor the players’ recovery, and a detailed rehabilitation program will be implemented to ensure they return to the field in the best possible condition.

San Lorenzo’s next match is yet to be confirmed, but the club will provide updates on the players’ progress and potential return timelines as they become available. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see their key players back on the pitch, but patience will be key as Cerutti and Hernández embark on the long road to recovery.

This double injury blow underscores the physical demands of professional football and the importance of preventative measures to minimize the risk of such setbacks. San Lorenzo will likely review their training protocols and injury prevention strategies to mitigate the chances of similar incidents occurring in the future.

The club’s supporters will be hoping for swift and full recoveries for both Cerutti and Hernández, and will undoubtedly rally behind the team as they face the challenges ahead. The spirit and determination of the San Lorenzo faithful will be crucial as the team strives to overcome this adversity.

Archysport will continue to provide updates on the condition of both players as their recovery progresses.