Liverpool have received a positive injury update on new signing Victor Munoz from Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, who insists the winger will play a key role in the World Cup despite a recent muscle setback.
Munoz's Move and Injury
The 22-year-old completed a £34.5 million transfer from Osasuna to Anfield on June 18, beating Newcastle United to his signature. He became the first signing of the Andoni Iraola era but has yet to conduct media duties due to his World Cup commitments.
Munoz was on an individual fitness plan to be ready for the tournament. He was an unused substitute in Spain's goalless draw with Cape Verde and missed the 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia after aggravating a muscle problem picked up before the World Cup in North America.
RFEF Statement
A statement from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) medical team said: "During the planned and individualised 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."
De la Fuente's Encouraging Words
However, De la Fuente provided a more optimistic outlook on Saturday. "Victor has had a small muscular problem (oedema) in another area. It is not a relapse," the coach explained. "He’s also experienced a lot of emotions and a lot of tension these last few weeks that may have stressed him out. Now he needs calm and tranquillity, and I’m sure we’ll see the Victor we know again. We’re working on it. Mark my words, Victor is going to be very important for us in this World Cup."
Liverpool's Medical Checks
Liverpool's medical staff had already examined Munoz before his six-year deal, flying to the United States to perform checks. It remains uncertain whether he will feature in Spain's final group game against Uruguay, which would be his World Cup debut for the Reds' newest signing.
If Munoz gets playing time, Liverpool will monitor his progress closely ahead of his return to pre-season training on Merseyside later this summer.
