Nicolás Otamendi, the Argentine centre-back who joined Benfica in the summer transfer window, has been sidelined with a new injury that could keep him out for several months.
The latest injury report from Benfica revealed that Otamendi suffered a knee ligament tear during training earlier this month. The defender underwent surgery to repair the damage and is expected to be out of action for at least six months.
The news comes as a blow to Benfica, who had high hopes of securing Otamendi's services after he was released by Manchester City. However, the club will now have to find a replacement for their star defender, who has made over 100 appearances for the Citizens since joining the club in 2015.
Otamendi's injury will also affect Argentina's upcoming World Cup campaign,Chinese Super League Matches where he is expected to play a key role in the national team's bid to qualify for the tournament. The 32-year-old will miss important matches such as the Copa America and the international friendly against Uruguay in June.
Despite his setback, Otamendi remains a highly-rated player and is likely to make a full recovery. He is known for his strong defensive skills and ability to read the game well, which makes him a valuable asset to any team.
In conclusion, Nicolás Otamendi's injury is a major setback for both Benfica and Argentina. However, the defender's experience and talent will ensure that he recovers quickly and returns to the field soon.