Why Is Marcos Rojo Unavailable Against Flamengo in the Copa Libertadores?
Estudiantes de La Plata received unexpected news ahead of their meeting with the reigning Copa Libertadores champions. Marcos Rojo's registration was not approved, and the Argentine club have outlined their next steps.
Estudiantes de La Plata have been dealt a setback just hours before facing Flamengo, the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, after CONMEBOL rejected Marcos Rojo's registration for the first leg.
The defender had joined Estudiantes hoping to begin his third spell with the club, but his eligibility for the continental competition has been affected by the decision.
Estudiantes confirmed the ruling in an official statement and expressed disagreement with the outcome.
Why was Marcos Rojo not cleared to play?
The situation concerns the regulations governing his arrival outside the regular transfer window.
According to Argentine media, Rojo joined Estudiantes after ending his spell with Racing.
His registration was arranged through a replacement spot requested following an injury to Gabriel Neves, who suffered displaced fractures of the ulna and radius near his left wrist.
Although Rojo has been registered in the Comet system since October 9 and is eligible to play in domestic competition, CONMEBOL did not approve his registration for the Copa Libertadores.
The available information does not specify the exact regulatory provision behind the rejection.
Estudiantes to appeal Marcos Rojo decision to CAS
In their official statement, Estudiantes maintained that Rojo's registration had been completed in accordance with the applicable regulations.
The club also referred to previous cases in which CONMEBOL approved registrations submitted under circumstances it considers comparable.
As a result, Estudiantes announced plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and request provisional measures aimed at reversing the decision.
The club will seek to secure Rojo's eligibility for the continental competition.
Estudiantes vs Flamengo: a major Copa Libertadores matchup
The decision comes ahead of the first leg between Estudiantes de La Plata and Flamengo, with the Argentine side preparing to face the reigning champions.
While Estudiantes pursue their appeal regarding Rojo's registration, attention will also turn to an important continental fixture.
Watch Estudiantes vs Flamengo and follow the Copa Libertadores on beIN SPORTS.
Three key facts about Marcos Rojo's situation
- Registration rejected: CONMEBOL did not approve Rojo's Copa Libertadores registration, although he remains eligible for domestic competition.
- Injury replacement: Estudiantes arranged his arrival through a replacement spot requested following Gabriel Neves' injury.
- Appeal to CAS: The Argentine club will seek to reverse the decision through an appeal and a request for provisional measures.
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