Lanzini’s River Plate Return Haunted by Injuries

Manuel Lanzini’s emotional return to River Plate has been struck by a cruel blow as a fresh injury keeps him sidelined, according to La Nacion.

The Argentine midfielder, who joined River Plate on a free transfer last summer after a long stint with West Ham, had hoped to end his career on a high note at his boyhood club. However, La Nacion describes his return so far as a “grey” one, overshadowed by persistent fitness issues.

Lanzini’s progress was initially halted by a torn right femoral biceps sustained in a pre-season friendly back in January. This injury significantly limited his playing time, with only five appearances and a mere 125 minutes under his belt in 2024.

Just as Lanzini seemed to be overcoming his initial injury woes, he has suffered another misfortune. A small fracture in his first right metatarsal will now keep him sidelined for the next two months. This latest setback is a significant blow to the midfielder’s morale as he strives to establish himself at River Plate.

With Lanzini’s contract expiring in June, a decision on his future with the club hangs in the balance. River Plate has the option to extend his contract by a year, but this recent injury certainly complicates things. While Lanzini is determined to prove his worth and recapture the form expected of him, his ability to do so before the contract decision is made is now uncertain.