Vélez Sarsfield player has been missing for ten days

Ricardo Centurión, a winger for Vélez Sarsfield, a first division club in Argentina, has been missing for ten days, revealed Fabián Berlanga, the club's president.

"He disappeared overnight. We don't know anything about him and we are worried. We are trying to locate him, but he turned off his phone and we can't reach him. We've been in this situation for 10 days," he explained in statements to the Argentine radio station Radio la Red.

Ricardo Centurión, 31, has a career marked by some controversial episodes. In December, he fled from a police check and later tested positive for cocaine.

"He is a young man who is still recovering. We are giving him every opportunity to train. We hope to help him recover as a person and give him the chance to be part of this group and to be just another member. From there, if all goes well, we hope to treat him like any other player, as he deserves," said the president.

The winger joined Vélez in 2020 and, in the first two seasons, participated in 60 games, scoring seven goals and providing five assists. In the following two years, he was loaned to San Lorenzo and Barracas Central, returning to Vélez for the 2024 season - he has not played any matches yet. Racing Club, Genoa, São Paulo, Boca Juniors, and Atlético San Luis are the other clubs he has played for.

Centurión's absence has raised significant concern among his teammates, coaches, and fans. Known for his skill on the field, his off-field issues have often overshadowed his talent. His career has been a rollercoaster, with moments of brilliance marred by personal struggles and controversies.

Despite these challenges, Vélez Sarsfield has shown considerable support for Centurión, emphasizing their commitment to his recovery and reintegration into the team. The club's approach highlights the broader issue of mental health and support for athletes who face personal difficulties.

As the search for Centurión continues, the football community remains hopeful for his safe return. His situation underscores the importance of comprehensive support systems for athletes, addressing not just their physical performance but also their mental and emotional well-being.

The broader football world is watching closely, not just for updates on his whereabouts but also to see how Vélez Sarsfield and other clubs might strengthen their support networks in response to such crises.