Nehuén Pérez Injures Achilles Tendon, World Cup Participation Uncertain

Reports from Olé indicate that Argentine defender Nehuén Pérez suffered a complete tear of his right Achilles tendon during Porto’s league match against Nacional. The 27-year-old underwent surgery by Dr. Nuno Brito, and the procedure was successful. However, this injury raises concerns about his chances of participating in the 2026 World Cup.

Pérez had just entered the match as a substitute for Alan Varela when he fell to the ground in pain just four minutes later. The alarm among his teammates highlighted the seriousness of the injury. Porto’s coach Francesco Farioli acknowledged that “it looks very serious,” a sentiment later confirmed by medical examinations.

This injury means Pérez will need at least six to nine months to recover, which may keep him sidelined before the tournament. Although he hasn’t played for Argentina since early 2024, he remained a potential defensive option for coach Lionel Scaloni.

With Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, and Lisandro Martínez likely to be included, Pérez’s injury opens the door for players like Leonardo Balerdi, Facundo Medina, and Juan Foyth to vie for a spot in the final squad.