Peru coach: Paolo Guerrero's recovery a priority

Photo: EFE

14:05 | Lima, Jan. 30.

Peru's national soccer team coach Ricardo Gareca on Wednesday said the priority is making sure Paolo Guerrero recovers.

As is known, the Peruvian forward will officially play soccer again on April 5.

In addition, he will join training sessions at Brazil's Sport Club Internacional on February 5.

"Our priority is making sure he (Paolo Guerrero) is fine. Renowned names alone are not enough in soccer, so his recovery is paramount. We need to give players time. We don't rush anyone," the Argentine told reporters.

Gareca also referred to the signing of Peru international Cristian Benavente to Egyptian side Pyramids FC.

"I would have liked that Cristian Benavente had remained in Europe. The economic benefit is not everything. In fact, the economic aspect and success go hand in hand, but that's a personal opinion," he added.

Guerrero case

In December 2017, FIFA Disciplinary Committee suspended the athlete for one year after analyzing the adverse analytical result of the anti-doping test conducted on him following a Qualifiers match against Argentina.

Later, it decided to reduce such suspension to 6 months, which would allow the sportsman to join the Inca team at the 2018 World Cup.

The star's defense demonstrated —with evidence— that he had never used cocaine (banned by FIFA). Instead, he had —unknowingly— drunk a contaminated tea.

In order to seek full acquittal, the player's defense appealed the decision in January 2018.

Yet, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) requested the sanction to be extended for up to two years.

On May 14, CAS decided to increase Guerrero's suspension from 6 to 14 months, thus leaving him out of the sporting mega-event.

As is known, the Peruvian met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. At the meeting, the striker unsuccessfully sought amnesty from FIFA's top official.

Then, Guerrero's legal team submitted an appeal to the Swiss Federal Court to suspend the ban imposed on the Peruvian icon.

The forward was cleared to play at the World Cup after the Swiss Federal Court —on May 31— agreed to lift the 14-month ban imposed on him by CAS.

At FIFA's major tournament, the player cemented his place as Peru's top striker with 35 goals defending the national team.

In August 2018, the Swiss justice revoked the precautionary measure that had cleared Guerrero to play soccer again.

The announcement came, as he was getting ready to make his debut for Porto Alegre's side Internacional.

(END) RES/RMB/MVB

Published: 1/30/2019

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