Flores out of Canada's World Cup team with a torn ACL

AFP

Canadian midfielder Marcelo Flores will miss the World Cup after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament while playing for Tigres UANL.

The 22-year-old was injured in Saturday's Concacaf Champions Cup final, going down without contact in the 77th minute and clutching his right leg before leaving the pitch in tears.

Flores confirmed the injury on social media.

"My ACL is gone," he wrote on Sunday. "I wanted to say thank you to everyone and all the messages. I haven't been on my phone or checked messages, but I promise to get around to everyone and I really appreciate the concerns. I'll be back stronger."

Canadian coach Jesse Marsch told reporters on Sunday that he and the team were "devastated" by the news.

Marsch had named Flores in his 26-man World Cup squad on Friday, with other key players including Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies still working back to full fitness.

Flores was born in Canada to a Mexican father, making him eligible to play for either country. He switched allegiance from Mexico to Canada earlier this year, and featured for Canada in games against Iceland and Tunisia.

Canada face Uzbekistan in a friendly in Edmonton on Monday. They open their World Cup campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12 in Toronto.

More from Sports

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

  • Afternoons with Helen Farmer

    1:00pm - 4:00pm

    Every weekday afternoon, Helen Farmer will help you to navigate the highs and lows of life in the UAE. Stay up to date with what’s happening and where to go.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!