Newcastle United’s Miguel Almiron may have been one of the stars of Copa America so far, but he and Paraguay face an early exit from the competition this evening.
Paraguay have now played all three of their Group B games, and finished in third with two points, failing to automatically qualify from their group.
Their 1-0 loss to Colombia last night has meant progressing in the competition is now out of their hands, and Almiron could be on his way home by tomorrow.
Paraguay’s only hope of advancing to the next round is by being one of the highest ranked third placed teams. The two third placed teams with the most points go through, and Paraguay are currently ranked second.
However, Group C’s Japan are set to face an already eliminated Ecuador side this evening, and could overtake them. A win for Japan will be enough to see them through, and ultimately knock Paraguay out of the contest.
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It will be a massive shame for Almiron, as he has really proven his ability on the international stage this summer.
His two assists make him one of the contest’s most creative players and it would be sad to see him leave so early.
But given Almiron’s recent transfer rumours, an early Copa exit may benefit Newcastle.
Copa exit will end Almiron transfer rumours
Due to his fantastic Copa America performances, Almiron has found himself at the centre of some baffling rumours.
The one which has grabbed everyone’s attention is from Argentinian sports channel TyC Sports, who claim the Toon star is now being monitored by Real Madrid.
It’s slightly unbelievable, especially given that Madrid have just purchased Eden Hazard who plays a similar position. Any potential move for Almiron is also highly unlikely given he was purchased for a club record sum in January.
But any rumours going round so early into his Newcastle career are undoubtedly worrying.
The facts are that Almiron has impressed in a high calibre competition. It wouldn’t be surprising if top clubs really are monitoring his situation, and they almost definitely will be come next season.
If Paraguay somehow progressed, and Almiron continued to impress, rumours would only increase.
With Rafa Benitez’s exit confirmed earlier today, the last thing Newcastle fans need is their star player’s future in doubt.
Although disappointing, an early Copa exit for Almiron would hopefully keep him out of the rumour columns for the next few months.
