Nacional defender Juan Izquierdo has passed away at age 27 just days after collapsing on the field, his club announced on Tuesday night. Izquierdo suffered cardiac arrest during a Copa Libertadores match last Thursday in Sao Paulo, Brazil against Sao Paulo. After being resuscitated, Izquierdo was taken to the hospital in critical condition where his condition worsened as he needed a ventilator, according to doctors at Hospital Albert Einstein.
“It is with deepest pain and shock in our hearts that Club Nacional de Football announces the passing of our beloved player Juan Izquierdo. We express our sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones,” the club said on X. “All of Nacional is mourning his irreparable loss. RIP. Juan, you will be with us forever.”
Numerous players around the world showed their support over the last week after he was hospitalized. Fellow Uruguayan Luis Suarez, who played for Nacional, wore a shirt during Inter Miami’s match over the weekend that said, “Fuerza, Juan,” sending his fellow countryman strength. Former Uruguay captain Diego Lugano visited the hospital on Monday along with other members of the soccer community and Izquierdo’s family. Uruguayan soccer matches were postponed during the weekend while Sao Paulo players wore a shirt of support during their victory over the weekend.
Izquierdo, who leaves behind a wife and two children, played for San Luis in Liga MX along with playing for Penarol, Wanderers, Liverpool and Cerro in Uruguay.
