On February 12, 2025, the Internacional football team secured a 3-1 victory against São Luiz at Estádio 19 de Outubro, Ijuí, but the win was overshadowed by concerns over Alan Patrick's injury. The 10th jersey struggled with pain following a fierce collided tackle during the final moments of the match, leaving both fans and the team anxious about his condition.
Alan Patrick sustained his injury after he kicked the foot of São Luiz's player during the 38th minute of the second half. The severity of the injury was alarming; he had to be carried off the field on a stretcher, unable to put any weight on his right ankle. According to Bruno Flores from Rádio Gaúcha, reports confirmed Patrick left the pitch with ice applied to his swollen ankle.
The head coach of Internacional, Roger Machado, expressed his worry about Alan Patrick’s condition during the post-match press conference, stating, "Vamos esperar e analisar (para dar um diagnóstico), mas não sei se ele vai ter condições para o final de semana." This statement raised alarms for fans as the team faces another match against Monsoon on February 15.
Machado described the incident as part of the game, saying, "O lance em si foi normal, o jogador do São Luiz tirou a bola, e o Alan chutou o calcanhar do adversário por não estar olhando. Parece ter sido uma torção, imagino eu..." His words underscored the unpredictability of sports injuries and how quickly things can shift from euphoria to concern.
Patrick's performance has been pivotal for Internacional, making his potential absence from the upcoming match against Monsoon all the more concerning. Machado speculated on possible substitutions for Patrick, potentially integrating players like Carbonero or the young Yago Noal, whom he describes as possessing similar skills to those of Alan Patrick. "Eu gostei muito do Carbonero na função (centralizado) contra o Brasil. Quem sabe se repita," he reflected, showcasing his strategic thought process.
Adding another layer of complication, Wesley, another key player for Internacional, also expressed discomfort during the game, having left the field briefly due to what appeared to be muscle strain. Machado mentioned, "O Wesley manifestou algo no começo do jogo, mas conseguiu chegar até o final do primeiro tempo." Both injuries have raised eyebrows and concerns within the squad as the team prepares for the closing matches of the Gauchão phase.
The injury to Alan Patrick has echoed through the ranks on both the field and the fanbase, as one of the key leaders is temporarily sidelined. His on-field capabilities extend beyond his technical skills; his leadership has been instrumental for the team’s cohesion and morale. Patrick has led by example, and losing him would undoubtedly impact the dynamic of the squad.
Despite patching up their upcoming plans, Internacional's management and fans can only hope for positive news from the medical team concerning Patrick's injury. Until then, the coaching crew remains burdened with the task of preparing for their next match without one of their strongest players. The reliance on depth and strategy is becoming more pivotal as injuries mounting threaten the balance of team dynamics.
Fans anxiously await updates on Patrick's condition, as his recovery will determine not just his future involvement in the games but potentially the overall success of Internacional for the remainder of the season. Team morale at this juncture is of the essence, with the hope being to see Alan Patrick back on the field to reclaim his influential role within the squad soon.