Mexico’s Goalkeeper Malagón Ruled Out of Copa América Due to Injury
Mexico national team goalkeeper Luis Malagón will miss the upcoming Copa América tournament after sustaining a muscle injury, as confirmed by ‘El Tri’ coach Jaime Lozano. The 27-year-old Club América goalkeeper was expected to be the starting goalkeeper for Mexico in the summer tournament, but a gluteus muscle injury will sideline him for three to four weeks.
Malagón arrived at Mexico’s camp with muscle discomfort, which worsened during the team’s preparation for the tournament. Subsequent tests revealed the extent of the injury, forcing him to withdraw from the Copa América. In his absence, Santos Laguna player Carlos Acevedo will step in as the replacement goalkeeper.
With Malagón out of contention, Pumas goalkeeper Julio González is likely to start for Mexico in the upcoming friendly against Brazil and potentially in the Copa América. The 33-year-old González has limited international experience, with just one cap to his name.
Mexico is undergoing a transition phase in goalkeeping, following the omission of Guillermo Ochoa from the preliminary squad for the Copa América. Alongside Malagón and González, goalkeeper Raúl Rangel has been selected to compete for the starting role.
Coach Lozano emphasized the competition among the goalkeepers, highlighting their hunger and eagerness to represent Mexico on the international stage. The absence of key players like Raúl Jiménez and Hirving Lozano further adds to the challenge for ‘El Tri’ in the upcoming tournament.
As Mexico prepares to face Ecuador, Venezuela, and Jamaica in Group B of the Copa América, the focus shifts to the goalkeeping situation and the team’s prospects in the competition. Despite the setback with Malagón’s injury, the Mexican team remains determined to put forth a strong performance in the tournament.