Real Madrid HEARTBREAK as ACL injury forces shock retirement

Robin Bairner

• 13 Nov 2024 11:00 GMT
• 6 min read

Real Madrid have been hit by a number of ACL injuries of late, with a stark reminder of just how serious the problem can be provided as one of their number has been forced to retire early from football following complications to surgery.

Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, for a second time, have been struck down with ACL problems in recent weeks, ending their respective seasons.

All going well, the pair will be back on the field for Los Blancos next season, but youngster Marc Cucalon has not had such a fortune story as he has announced his retirement from football aged just 18.

He suffered an ACL injury in 2022 but suffered from a infection following surgery and has been unable to regain his level.

Facing difficulties exercising and a poor outlook for regaining his level, medics advised him to hang up his boots in what is a heartbreaking story for the teen.

Cucalon’s heartfelt retirement message

Posting on Instagram, he said: “I didn’t know how to start this letter, so I’ll begin by saying THANK YOU to everyone. Truly, from the heart. For all the support you’ve given me throughout this time. I arrived at Real Madrid’s academy in the summer of 2016, just a kid with a backpack full of dreams, and I’ve been so, so happy. And the truth is, my life changed completely on September 6, 2022, when I suffered a serious injury during a UEFA Youth League game.

“After several complications, that injury has forced me to make the tough decision to say GOODBYE to football, at least in the way I had always dreamed. Over the past two years, I’ve fought physically and mentally with all my strength, and I’ve tried everything in my power to enjoy this sport again, but I haven’t been able to recover. But don’t get me wrong: this isn’t a sad farewell at all.

“After all, I feel incredibly privileged to have been part of the best club in the world and to have lived a dream. I have grown and matured as a person and a player. I carry with me for the rest of my life the values that were instilled in me, and, of course, football has taught me, in both victory and defeat: you must always rise above and keep fighting to overcome obstacles. Those lessons will always be part of my life.

“Now is the time to look back and express gratitude to all the people who have been by my side on this journey.

“Endless thanks to my family. Thank you to my parents, who have always supported me in every decision and through every challenge. Leaving home to follow my dream was difficult, but seeing their happy faces as they watched me on the field became my greatest pride. Thanks also to my friends, the loyal ones who have never let me down.”