Neal Sako remains sidelined for Valencia Basket as the club navigates an early-season frontcourt shortage caused by ongoing physical issues stemming from his summer international duty with the French national team, according to local reports.
French International Duty Triggers Early-Season Absence
The Valencia Basket center has been dealing with lingering discomfort in his pubic region that first flared during France’s World Cup qualifying campaign, as reported by actualidadvalencia.com.
While initial coverage pointed toward a recovery process following an inguinal hernia procedure, subsequent reporting highlights that the underlying pubic issue has prevented the French big man from participating in team practices under head coach Xavi Albert since the start of pre-season.
Frontcourt Rotation Forced to Adjust
The club has not previously detailed the full extent of the issue publicly, leaving the team’s interior rotation thin as the competitive calendar begins.
To offset the absence, Valencia Basket moved quickly to secure Cuban interior player Jasiel Rivero on a one-month temporary contract, providing an experienced veteran option in the paint while Sako works through his rehabilitation program.
Supercup Showdown Missed in Badalona
The timing of the injury proved particularly impactful as Valencia Basket prepared for the season’s opening silverware test.
Despite missing their starting-caliber center, Valencia entered the tournament clash catching a break against a depleted Barcelona side that traveled without key contributors Yoan Makoundoy and Tosan Evbuonwan due to injury, alongside guard Darío Brizuela, who was listed as a game-time decision following a heavy knock in the Lliga Catalana final.
Fluid Return Timeline and Roster Bridging
Club medical staff and coaching leadership have kept Sako’s exact return timeline fluid, noting that his daily physical response to treatment will determine when he can resume full-contact training.
In the interim, Rivero’s short-term deal bridges the gap during a demanding opening stretch of fixtures across both domestic and European competitions.
Fans looking for immediate updates on Sako’s availability can follow official club announcements ahead of Valencia Basket’s upcoming regular-season fixtures in the Liga ACB and EuroCup.
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