Montiel Injured Again, Will Miss Key Libertadores and League Matches

Gonzalo Montiel has once again been sidelined for River Plate after aggravating a previous muscle injury, Olé reported on Tuesday. The right-back, who returned to action just 11 days after a minor thigh strain sustained against Boca Juniors, limped off during the first half of River’s 3-0 win over Barracas Central.

Medical exams confirmed that Montiel did not suffer a new tear but reopened the scar from the previous one in his right hamstring. His estimated recovery time is around 10 days, meaning he will miss Thursday’s Copa Libertadores match against Independiente del Valle and the upcoming quarterfinal clash with Platense in the Torneo Apertura.

Marcelo Gallardo is expected to start Fabricio Bustos in Montiel’s place for both key fixtures. Meanwhile, River received good news concerning center-back Paulo Díaz. The Chilean international, who returned from injury in the Libertadores win over Barcelona SC, requested a substitution on Monday but did not require medical scans. He will be available for selection.

River now faces a critical stretch with important continental and domestic fixtures, and must adjust its defensive line to remain on course for titles.