Arsenal have confirmed that Fabio Vieira has exited U-21 Euros due to a medical issue days after joining Portugal squad for the tournament.
Fabio Vieira was called up by Portugal U-21 head coach, Rui Jorge, for the youth championships which is set to kick off on June 21, 2023.
Reports from the Portugal camp later revealed Fabio Vieira chances of continuing with the tournament was slim after an examination by Portugal U-21 medical staff.
Now, Arsenal have confirmed that Fabio Vieira has been ruled out of the competition due to an undisclosed medical issue and will return to London to continue his recovery ahead of Arsenal’s 2023/24 Premier League challenge.
It is still unclear whether Fabio Vieira will recover soon enough to join Arsenal in their preseason campaign despite the club’s claim he will be expected to return back to training with Arsenal in the next two weeks.
Portugal medical staff have not disclosed the state of Vieira’s injury. Arsenal statement confirming Fabio Vieira’s withdrawal said Vieira is expected to recover ahead of next season, sparking speculations the former Porto forward may not recover early to join Arsenal in their preseason tour ahead of next season.
The statement reads;
“Our midfielder had travelled with the squad to Georgia and was expected to skipper his country at the finals which kicks off later this week, however he has now returned home to rest and recover, ahead of next season.”
Vieira is hopeful of a quick return to action with Arsenal. A culled response from the Portugal youngster, confirming the withdrawal reveals the attacker is hopeful of making it to Arsenal’s preseason tour before the commencement of next seasons’ campaign.
Vieira added he tried to be fit and play for his country but had to withdraw from the squad to protect his health.
“I tried everything to be ready to play for my country. I love to play for Portugal, but unfortunately it was not possible. I didn’t feel on top to play and help the team and the medical staff agreed.
“The most important thing is my health and this precaution was taken to reduce any risks. Now is the time to rest and be 100 per cent ready for pre-season, and next season.”
Vieira joined Arsenal from FC Porto as a regular first team player for the Portuguese side but has ended up at the peripheries at the Emirates.
He played a bit-part role in Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge, making 22 Premier League appearances for the club with one goal and an assist.
Vieira was benched in key Arsenal matches this season. He made 8 Europa League appearances for the club and one EFL Cup appearance.
With his bit-part role for the Gunners this season, there are concerns Vieira’s injury blow could worsen his Arsenal condition ahead of next season.
A stint with Portugal U-21 squad would have further reshape his Arsenal career and boost his chances of breaking into the Mikel Arteta’s starting lineup next season.
Hence, the 23-year-old will hope for a quick recovery to return to his game ahead of next season.
Meanwhile, Portugal have called up Diego Moreira to replace him in the squad.
Vieira is Portugal U-21 captain. He is 23 years but is allowed to take part in the competition because players who were born in 2000 are allowed by UEFA to take part in the competition.
