Edinson Cavani, Boca Juniors’ 37‑year‑old marquee striker, will sit out the upcoming pre‑season friendly against Millonarios due to a lingering lumbar strain. The injury, first noticed late last season, keeps him away from training and delays his integration into Jorge Almirón’s attacking system, raising doubts about his readiness for the Argentine Primera División opener.
Injury Details and Current Status
Medical Update
The club’s medical team confirmed that Cavani continues to experience “molestia” in his lower back, classified as a lumbar strain. He is undergoing a specialized rehabilitation program that includes targeted physiotherapy, low‑impact conditioning, and a gradual return to on‑field drills. No definitive timeline for his full return has been announced.
Impact on Boca Juniors’ Pre‑Season Plans
Tactical Adjustments
With Cavani unavailable for the Millonarios match, Almirón is reshaping the forward line. Luis Franco is expected to assume a more central role, while Mateo Retegui will provide pace on the flanks. This shift offers a chance to diversify Boca’s attack but may expose the team against physically robust opponents.
Cavani’s Career Overview
Key Traits
Cavani’s blend of aerial prowess, clinical finishing, and experienced positioning forces defenses to allocate extra resources, creating space for teammates. His career highlights include successful spells at Palermo, Napoli, Paris Saint‑Germain, Manchester United, and Valencia before joining Boca Juniors in 2023.
What to Expect Next
- Monitor Cavani’s rehabilitation milestones ahead of the domestic fixture against Club Riestra.
- Assess the effectiveness of Almirón’s tactical tweaks during the remaining pre‑season friendlies.
- Consider potential squad rotation strategies to cope with Cavani’s absence in early league matches.
- Stay alert for any updates on a possible return date as the season approaches.
