Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove is currently in a medically induced coma after collapsing on the field during his team's Serie A match against Inter Milan on Sunday. The game was abandoned shortly after the incident occurred.
Teammates of Bove acted swiftly, calling for medical assistance as both sets of players gathered around the 22-year-old midfielder. He was promptly stretchered off the field to an ambulance located near the pitch and then transported to Careggi Hospital in Florence.
Fiorentina released a statement confirming that Bove is under pharmacological sedation and is receiving intensive care at the hospital. Initial cardiological and neurological tests have shown no acute damage to his central nervous system or cardio-respiratory system. Bove's condition will be reassessed in the next 24 hours.
Reports from Sky Italia indicated that Bove regained consciousness while in the ambulance and was able to breathe on his own. His parents, girlfriend, Fiorentina coach, teammates, club directors, and the city's mayor have all gathered at the hospital to show their support.
Fiorentina fans have also demonstrated their solidarity by displaying a banner outside the hospital with the message: 'Forza Edoardo, Florence is with you.' Club president Rocco Commisso expressed his support, stating, 'Forza Edoardo, we're with you. You're a strong boy with a great character.'
Messages of encouragement poured in on social media from players and clubs, with Inter midfielder Federico Dimarco expressing his support for Bove and his family. The match was halted and subsequently abandoned following the incident in the 16th minute, with the score tied at 0-0.
This unfortunate event brings back memories of former Fiorentina captain Davide Astori, who tragically passed away in 2018. Bove, a product of the Roma youth academy, joined Fiorentina on loan this season with the option for a permanent move.
Notably, Romelu Lukaku, who previously played alongside Bove at Roma, shared a photo of the two with a heartfelt message: 'I love you lil bro. We are all with you.'
This incident marks the second occurrence this year of a player collapsing during a Serie A match, following Roma defender Evan Ndicka's collapse in April. The football community continues to rally around Bove, sending thoughts and prayers for his swift recovery.
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