Nahuel Molina
ARG
Expected back by end of week
Molina (hamstring) has entered the fourth week of his rehabilitation and could be in contention for Argentina's second friendly against Iceland or in the World Cup opener versus Algeria, Martin Arevalo of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Molina's status will continue to be monitored by his national team as he targets a return to action in the World Cup. The defender, who was sidelined in the final three matches of the season with Atletico Madrid, is a solid candidate to start on the right side of his country's back four, offering both defensive and attacking value. Otherwise, Gonzalo Montiel could serve as a potential replacement option.
Suffers small hamstring tear
Molina suffered a small hamstring tear in the final action of Saturday's 1-0 loss against Celta Vigo and is ruled out for approximately three weeks, bringing his season at Atletico to a premature end, according to Carrusel Deportivo.
Analysis: Molina ends the campaign with two goals and two assists alongside 56 tackles and 48 clearances across 39 appearances in all competitions, having been one of coach Diego Simeone's most reliable options throughout the season. The three-week recovery timeline delivers some relief for Argentina, with the diagnosis indicating Molina should be fit in time to join the Albiceleste squad for the World Cup this summer. The focus now shifts entirely to his rehabilitation with the tournament on the horizon.
Assists off bench in victory
Molina assisted once to go with one chance created in Saturday's 3-2 win over Athletic.
Analysis: Molina made his presence felt as a substitute, playing a long ball that Alexander Sorloth turned into a stoppage-time goal against the Bilbao side. Despite being in and out of the starting lineup, Molina has made a strong impact this campaign, leading the team's defenders in La Liga direct contributions with four, alongside Marcos Llorente. The Argentinian will look to take minutes off Llorente at right-back as the season heads into its final stretch.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare