Alexia Putellas, Spain’s Star Player, Sidelined for Euro 2022 Due to ACL Injury
In a disappointing blow to Spain’s national women’s football team, Alexia Putellas, considered the world’s best women’s player in 2021, will not be able to participate in Euro 2022 due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her left knee. This devastating news was confirmed after Putellas suffered the injury during a training session. The 28-year-old, who won the prestigious Ballon d’Or award last year, is expected to be sidelined for at least six months, leaving a significant void in the Spanish squad.
A Setback for the Spanish National Team
The Spanish Football Association released a statement confirming the extent of Putellas’ injury, stating, “The tests carried out at the King Edward VII hospital in London have confirmed that the captain of the Spanish Women’s National Team suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee.” This setback is particularly significant as Putellas has accumulated an impressive 100 caps for Spain, making her the most experienced player in the current Euro squad.
Unfortunately, Putellas is not the only key player on the Spanish team facing injury woes. Jennifer Hermoso, another influential player, was also ruled out of the tournament due to an injury.
Amaiur Sarriegi Called Up as Replacement
To fill the void left by Putellas’ absence, Amaiur Sarriegi, a talented forward from Real Sociedad, has been called up to the Spanish squad. Sarriegi was initially listed in the extended 28-player squad but needed to be cut down to the final 23 ahead of the tournament.
Spain’s first match in Euro 2022 will be against Finland on Friday, placing additional pressure on the team to adjust to the absence of their star player.
Euro 2022: Spain’s Odds and Expectations
Despite the setback, Spain remains one of the favorites to win Euro 2022. Placed in Group B alongside Germany, Denmark, and Finland, the Spanish team still holds significant odds to lift the trophy at the end of the month. Currently, Spain is the frontrunner with odds of +300, followed closely by England (+400), France, and the Netherlands (+500).
Bookmakers anticipate that Spain will have little trouble advancing to the semifinals, giving them favorable odds of -200 to reach the penultimate phase of the competition. The Spanish team possesses formidable talent and has a track record of success, which has contributed to their optimistic odds.
Golden Boot Contenders
While Spain hopes to triumph as a team, individual players also have the opportunity to shine and claim personal accolades. Ellen White, the prolific English forward, is the current favorite at +400 to win the Golden Boot, awarded to the tournament’s top goal scorer. Following closely behind are Vivianne Miedema and Marie-Antoinette Katoto, both at +600.
Conclusion
The absence of Alexia Putellas, Spain’s star player and Ballon d’Or winner, due to an ACL injury poses a significant challenge for the Spanish national women’s football team in Euro 2022. However, despite this setback, Spain remains a strong contender for the championship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is Alexia Putellas expected to be sidelined?
Alexia Putellas is anticipated to be out of action for at least six months as she recovers from her ACL injury.
2. Who has been called up to replace Alexia Putellas in the Spanish squad?
Amaiur Sarriegi, a forward from Real Sociedad, has been selected as Putellas’ replacement in the Spanish national team.
3. Who are the favorites to win Euro 2022?
Spain is currently favored to win Euro 2022, followed closely by England, France, and the Netherlands.
4. Can Spain overcome the absence of Alexia Putellas?
While Putellas’ absence represents a significant loss for Spain, the team boasts a talented roster capable of rising to the challenge and achieving success in Euro 2022.
5. Who are the leading contenders for the Golden Boot award?
Ellen White, Vivianne Miedema, and Marie-Antoinette Katoto are the top contenders for the Golden Boot, awarded to the tournament’s highest goal scorer.
