Liverpool's new £34 million signing Victor Munoz has suffered an injury setback while representing Spain at the World Cup, casting doubt on his participation in the tournament. The 22-year-old winger, who completed his move to Anfield on Thursday, aggravated a muscle problem that first emerged during the build-up to the competition.
Transfer and Injury Details
Munoz signed a six-year contract with Liverpool after the club fended off competition from Newcastle United and Manchester United. Anfield medical staff traveled to the US to conduct checks on the former Osasuna star before the deal was finalized. However, his World Cup campaign is now in jeopardy after the muscle injury worsened.
A statement from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) medical team confirmed: "During the planned and individualized recovery process, an additional muscle injury has occurred that will delay his return to competition. His availability for the upcoming matches will depend on the evolution of his symptoms."
Impact on Spain's World Cup Campaign
The injury is severe enough to rule Munoz out of the group stage, adding to the concerns of Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente, who is already dealing with fitness issues surrounding star forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Spanish outlet Cadena SER reported that it remains uncertain whether Munoz will recover in time for the knockout rounds.
Munoz was following a tailored individual fitness program to prepare for the World Cup. He was fit enough to be on the bench for Spain's goalless draw with Cape Verde in their group opener but will now miss the upcoming matches against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay on June 27.
Munoz's Farewell to Osasuna
Due to his involvement in the World Cup across the US, Canada, and Mexico, Munoz has yet to fulfill his media obligations with Liverpool. However, after completing his transfer, he released a heartfelt statement thanking Osasuna and its fans.
"It's never easy to say farewell to a place where you've been very happy and where you lived the best footballing year of your career," Munoz said. "Since the first day, I felt very connected with this club, with its shirt and the values it represents. I always tried to give everything on the pitch and give back all the love I received."
He added: "I want to thank the club for trusting me from the first moment, all the staff who helped me grow as a footballer and a person, and all my teammates who took me in from day one like the big family we are. We shared unforgettable moments. I'm leaving, but I'm taking away much more than football."
Munoz also expressed gratitude to Navarra and Pamplona, saying: "You made me feel at home and it's something I could never thank you enough for. This city will always have a special place in my heart."
Liverpool fans will now anxiously await updates on Munoz's recovery, hoping he can still make an impact at the World Cup and for the Reds in the upcoming season.
