A budding footballer has suffered a stroke just before a match.
Matías Ferlini had just arrived at the away ground when he was taken ill.
The 22-year-old was rushed to hospital where he remains under observation.
READ MORE: Boxer, 26, dies of brain haemorrhage after collapsing in gym
So far, tests have come back normal as doctors continue to investigate what caused the medical episode.
Matías, who plays for Club Atlético 9 de Julio de Rafaela in Argentina’s third-tier division, had travelled 120 miles from Rafaela City to Las Parejas, Santa Fe Province, for the game on Sunday (5 Apr).
A hospital spokesperson said: “Today, according to the official medical report provided by Dr. Paola Capponi, head of Intensive Care at the Nosti Clinic, it is reported that patient Matías Ferlini suffered a stroke.
“It caused symptoms such as difficulty speaking and tingling in his right arm.
“He has no lasting effects from this episode, however tests performed revealed other injuries that could be pre-existing so preventive medication and further complementary tests were organised.”
They added: “To date, the cardiological tests have yielded normal results.”
After being treated at a local hospital, the central defender was transferred to the Nosti Clinic in his home city.
His club said in a statement yesterday (8 Apr): “Upon arrival in the city of Las Parejas, player Matías Ferlini suffered a medical episode requiring immediate attention.
“He was initially taken to the local hospital where he received first aid, and was subsequently transferred to the city of Rafaela for further evaluation and treatment.
“The club wishes to reassure his friends, family, and entire community that Matías is in stable condition and under medical observation.
We also want to express our deepest gratitude to the Nosti Clinic.
“Thanks to the swift intervention, professional quality, and care provided, the medical team has been a fundamental pillar in the athlete’s positive recovery.
“We will continue to closely monitor his recovery and provide updates.”
Matías joined the third division side from regional team Club Sportivo Norte, as reported by NeedToKnow.
It is his first season playing in Argentina’s Torneo Federal A league.
The case has sparked concern in the league due to the defender’s young age and promising career ahead of him.
READ MORE: Women brawl in front of coffin after discovering they were BOTH lovers of same cheating chap
