2 mn read
The physically demanding nature of football can lead to serious health issues, including cardiac problems. Below are eight players who were compelled to retire from the sport due to heart-related conditions.
- Sergio Aguero (Cardiac Arrhythmia)
- Aguero’s much-anticipated move to Barcelona in 2021 ended prematurely when he was diagnosed with cardiac arrhythmia after a match against Deportivo Alaves. Despite his desire to play, medical advice led him to retire, preventing him from joining Argentina in their 2022 World Cup victory.
- Lilian Thuram (Enlarged Heart)
- The 1998 World Cup winner had an illustrious career but was forced to retire in 2008 after being diagnosed with an enlarged heart. This condition also forced him to abandon a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, adding to the heartbreak as his brother had previously succumbed to the same issue.
- Iker Casillas (Heart Attack)
- Renowned for his goalkeeping skills, Casillas suffered a heart attack during a training session with Porto in 2019. After a year of recovery, he decided to retire, ending a stellar career filled with numerous accolades.
- Miguel Angel Garcia Tebar (Cardiac Arrest)
- García Tebar collapsed on the pitch during a match for Salamanca against Real Betis in October 2010 due to cardiac arrest. Quick medical intervention saved his life, but the incident marked the end of his professional career.
- Fabrice Ndala Muamba (Cardiac Arrest)
- During a quarterfinal match in 2011, Muamba collapsed on the pitch while playing for Bolton Wanderers due to a cardiac arrest. His life was saved thanks to immediate medical response, but he had to retire just three months later.
- Ruben de la Red (Heart Ailment)
- After returning to Real Madrid from Getafe, De la Red was diagnosed with a heart condition during a Copa del Rey match in 2008. His career ended prematurely at just 25 years old after a two-year break for recovery.
- Abdelhak Nouri (Cardiac Arrhythmia)
- Nouri’s career took a tragic turn in 2017 when he collapsed during a pre-season friendly for Ajax due to cardiac arrhythmia. The incident resulted in severe brain damage, and although he regained consciousness after three years in a coma, his playing days were over.
- Enock Mwepu (Hereditary Heart Condition)
- Mwepu’s promising career with Brighton came to an end in 2022 due to a hereditary heart condition diagnosed at the age of 24. Despite retiring, he remains involved in football as the head coach of Brighton’s Under-9 team.
These cases highlight the inherent risks associated with professional sports and the importance of monitoring player health.