Arsenal have released a statement confirming that midfielder Fabio Vieira has withdrawn from Portugal's Under-21 European Championships because of a medical issue.
Vieira was due to captain the side in Georgia and Romania after being named in Rui Jorge's squad alongside fellow Gunners youngster Nuno Tavares. However, the Portuguese Football Federation confirmed on Sunday that the 23-year-old would miss the tournament, with Diego Moreira taking his place in the squad.
Now, the Gunners have released their own statement on their website, which reads: "Fabio Vieira has withdrawn from Portugal’s under-21 squad for the upcoming U21 European Championships due to a medical issue. Our midfielder had travelled with the squad to Georgia and was expected to skipper his country at the finals which kicks off later this week, however he has now returned home to rest and recover, ahead of next season."
Vieira voiced his frustrations, admitting that he tried everything to get ready in time before the decision was made to leave the former Porto playmaker out of the squad. “I tried everything to be ready to play for my country,” he said.
“I love to play for Portugal, but unfortunately it was not possible. I didn’t feel on top to play and help the team and the medical staff agreed.
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"The most important thing is my health and this precaution was taken to reduce any risks. Now is the time to rest and be 100 per cent ready for pre-season, and next season.”
Arsenal's statement continued: "Fabio is expected to be ready to return to full training within the next two weeks. Nuno Tavares is now our sole representative in the Portugal squad, as they aim to claim the prize for the first time, having been runners-up last time around in 2021."
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