Former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar has been hospitalized following a serious accident at the RCD Mallorca training facilities. The 42-year-old player sustained a severe head injury after a large decorative structure inside the club's canteen collapsed on him.
The incident occurred at the Antonio Asensio training center, prompting immediate medical intervention. According to reports from The Athletic, the veteran goalkeeper is currently under medical observation, where he is expected to remain for at least 24 hours to monitor his recovery.
Details of the training ground incident
The accident involved a significant piece of interior decor within the dining area of the training complex. While the club has confirmed the severity of the injury, details regarding the specific nature of the structural failure remain limited. The club is currently assessing the circumstances surrounding the collapse to ensure the safety of their facilities.
The loss of Cuellar, who serves as the backup goalkeeper for Mallorca, presents an immediate challenge for manager Luis Garcia. With primary backup goalkeeper Lucas Bergstrom currently away on international duty with the Finland national team, the club is left with only one senior goalkeeper available for the upcoming match against Girona this Sunday.
Career background and professional status
Known affectionately by the nickname Pichu, Cuellar has enjoyed a distinguished career spanning 23 years in professional football. His journey began in the youth ranks of Real Madrid before he moved to Atletico Madrid in 2002. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 205 appearances in La Liga, representing clubs including Sporting Gijon and Leganes.
Since joining Mallorca in 2023, Cuellar has primarily served as the understudy to Arnau Tenas. Despite his limited playing time—having made only three appearances across all competitions since his arrival—he remains a respected veteran figure within the squad. The football community continues to monitor his condition as he undergoes treatment and observation following this unexpected workplace accident.
