Doctors at the Brazilian hospital treating Nacional defender Juan Izquierdo on Monday said he is under neurological critical care and still on a ventilator. Izquierdo, 27, has been receiving treatment since he collapsed on Thursday during a Copa Libertadores game between Nacional and host Sao Paulo. The hospital did not provide further details in a statement signed by the three doctors treating Izquierdo.
The hospital stated that Izquierdo had shown a progression of his brain damage and an increase of intracranial pressure, which are considered life-threatening conditions. Former Uruguay captain Diego Lugano visited the hospital where Izquierdo is being treated but did not speak to journalists present.
Uruguayan media reported that Izquierdo's parents, wife, and two-year-old daughter are at the hospital in Sao Paulo, along with Nacional executives. Izquierdo went into cardiac arrest and needed resuscitation after collapsing at the Morumbi Stadium.
Uruguay's first and second division leagues were postponed over the weekend due to concerns about Izquierdo's health. Sao Paulo players showed support for the Uruguayan footballer by wearing a shirt before their Brazilian league win against Vitoria on Sunday.
Izquierdo's career includes stints at Cerro, Peñarol, Wanderers, and Liverpool in Uruguay, as well as playing for Liga MX's San Luis.
