Kirian Rodríguez, the captain of UD Las Palmas, has announced his indefinite medical leave due to health issues, marking the end of his season with 16 games remaining. The announcement is set for Thursday morning at 9:45 AM at the club's training ground, Barranco Seco.
Rodríguez played his last match on Monday against Girona, during which he showcased his tenacity and commitment to the team. Despite having battled Hodgkin's lymphoma, which sidelined him for eight months, he made a remarkable comeback to play 21 games this season, becoming a pivotal player for Las Palmas. His contributions were not only calculated by the goals he scored but also by the leadership he exhibited both on and off the field.
Having previously disclosed his cancer diagnosis back in August 2022, Kirian initially faced immense challenges. After undergoing chemotherapy, he resumed his career more than a year later, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to return to football. "The doctors told me I can return to normal life, work, and social interactions; I hope to adapt soon and contribute both on and off the field," he stated after overcoming his health crisis.
This season, he had only missed one match due to injury and had been instrumental under both coach Luis Carrión and current coach Diego Martínez. His performance proved indispensable as he led the team, not just as captain wearing the armband, but also through his energetic presence on the pitch where he accumulated three assists and showcased the kind of playmaking ability fans have come to expect.
Rodríguez’s impact extends beyond the numbers. Many of his teammates have expressed admiration, acknowledging the void his absence will create. He has been described as the heart and soul of the locker room, with one teammate stating, "Kirian has left a void... his charisma, football skills, and professionalism are hard to replace," emphasizing how pivotal he has been to the morale and performance of the team.
Recent weeks elevated concerns over Kirian's health as he faced unusual drops in physical performance, which culminated with him not participating fully in training sessions leading up to his last game. On the night of the match against Girona, he was substituted out early, sparking conversations about his physical condition and the sustainability of his playing time.
The community surrounding UD Las Palmas understands the emotional weight Kirian carries. He has been sought after by the fans, who commingled support and criticism. His decision to leave social media over persistent negative comments from certain fans only added to the concern for his well-being. Rodríguez's social media accounts have been inactive for nearly a month, decision rooted deep within the scrutiny he has faced lately. His situation highlights the growing sensitivity around athlete mental and physical health.
With the club's silence surrounding Kirian's decision preceding the announcement, it’s clear they are prioritizing his health and privacy. Inside the organization, there is palpable anxiety about the uncertainty of his condition, signaling the deep respect they hold for him. Both teammates and club officials plan to be present at the press conference to show their support.
Looking forward, the departure of Kirian Rodríguez for the season leaves not just tactical gaps on the field but also emotional ones, as he’s been viewed as one of the pillars of Las Palmas during its recent surge. The skills and leadership qualities he demonstrated were instrumental last season as the team sought to establish itself firmly within the top tier of Spanish football.
The club actively seeks to fill the gap left by Kirian's leave as suspicions arise around player depth. Consequently, Las Palmas recently secured midfielder Stefan Bajcetic as part of their effort to enforce the team's lineup, proving just how high the stakes are this season.
Kirian's commitment, resolve, and leadership have not only influenced his team but have also left remarkable sentiments among fans, who recognize him as one of their icons. His story, from illness and back to success, speaks volumes not just of his character but also of the collective spirit of UD Las Palmas.
With his indefinite leave now confirmed, support from the fans, players, and club management will undoubtedly be significant as he navigates this next challenge away from football. His legacy with the team will continue to resonate, and like many, fans will eagerly await his return to the pitch.