Uruguayan midfielder Nicolás de la Cruz, a key figure for Flamengo this season, has found himself at the center of a controversy that has raised questions about his physical condition and future at the Brazilian club. The situation erupted after a private message from a club doctor was leaked, claiming the player suffers from a "chronic and irreparable" injury in his right knee, along with issues in his left knee that affect his muscle balance.

Flamengo’s official response to the Nicolás de la Cruz case

The Rio de Janeiro club quickly responded with an official statement, stressing that the opinion did not come from any of the five doctors who work directly with the players during training, matches, and trips. These doctors are also responsible for consistently and transparently communicating any information of public interest to the media and fans.

Flamengo reiterated that it will not comment on speculation and remains focused on maintaining the high level that has placed the team among Brazil's best this season. The club emphasized its serious approach to taking care of players’ health, strengthening the squad with top-level talent, and staying committed to its sporting goals.

The controversy originated from a message sent in a private WhatsApp group by José Luiz Runco, a longtime doctor for both Flamengo and the Brazilian national team, who recently returned to the club in an administrative role overseeing the medical department. In the message, Runco questioned De la Cruz’s physical fitness, claiming he was signed “without the slightest condition” to perform at a high level and that his recovery presents a major challenge. He even suggested a transfer would only be feasible if a club were interested for reasons other than competitive football.

The leak triggered backlash among players, medical staff, and coaches at Flamengo, who pushed for the termination of Runco’s contract. Meanwhile, the Uruguayan midfielder took to social media to reject the claims, stating he won’t allow anyone to tell him what he can or cannot do. According to Brazilian media, De la Cruz is considering legal action to protect his image and career.

Despite being one of Flamengo’s most expensive signings a year and a half ago after leaving River Plate, the talented midfielder has played only 20 matches this season, many of them with limited minutes. His future remains uncertain, but the club has made it clear that maintaining a competitive team and safeguarding its players' well-being are top priorities.