‘Perez dying to play for River’

Enzo Perez’s future has marred Valencia’s preparations for their match against Real Betis as his father claims he “is dying to play for River Plate”.

Marca cites mounting speculation of interest from River in Enzo, who did not make the trip to Benito Villamarin due to a calf injury, and Carlos Perez only added fuel to those links.

“Enzo is dying to play for River Plate,” he told TyC Sports.

“It would fulfil a family dream, although I understand that the Coach doesn’t want him to leave because Valencia are in a relegation battle.

Indeed, Voro Gonzalez said at a Press conference on Friday: “Yesterday, I talked to Enzo on the training ground, but I also talked to others in the office.

“He’s the captain of Valencia. We talked about the team and many other things that will remain confidential.

“He is committed and will give everything for the team. It may be that he gesticulates here and there, but that’s something I have no control over. Enzo, of course, will stay at Valencia.

“Out of the squad? He had problems in Las Palmas because of the problems in his calf. He’s almost recovered, but his feelings are so that he can’t play.

“There’s a fine line between medical tests and feelings. Also, what lies ahead makes it important for us not to risk him.

“Last year, he played with discomfort twice and had to be substituted [both times].”

Valencia paid Benfica €25m for Perez in January 2015, but despite his status as club captain, injuries and poor form have limited the 30-year-old to only 49 La Liga appearances since then.

Tags Enzo Perez River Plate
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