Fla sack doctor José Luiz Runco after comments on De La Cruz

Rio de Janeiro has been rocked by a swift and decisive move from Flamengo, as the club announced the immediate dismissal of its head of medical department, José Luiz Runco. The veteran doctor's departure comes just a day after a controversial message, reportedly leaked from internal communications, surfaced revealing highly sensitive details about new star signing Nico De La Cruz's medical condition. The message reportedly described the Uruguayan midfielder's ailment as "chronic and irreparable," a pronouncement that sent shockwaves through the club and its passionate fanbase.

Dr. Runco, a highly respected figure in Brazilian football medicine with a long history at the Gávea club and even with the Brazilian national team, found his tenure abruptly concluded due to the perceived severity of his comments. The revelation regarding De La Cruz, a marquee acquisition for Flamengo in the recent transfer window, carries immense implications. Such a public or semi-public statement about a player's long-term health not only breaches the fundamental tenets of medical confidentiality but also risks significantly devaluing a multi-million-dollar asset. For a player like De La Cruz, who arrived with high expectations and a substantial transfer fee, the mere suggestion of a permanent, career-altering condition can be devastating both psychologically and professionally, casting a shadow over his future contributions even before he has fully settled.

Flamengo's swift action underscores the club's commitment to protecting its players and managing its public image. The decision to remove such an experienced and prominent figure like Runco highlights the gravity of the situation and the potential damage his words could inflict on De La Cruz's career and the club's investment. It sends a clear message about the zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized disclosures of sensitive player information, particularly when it pertains to chronic health issues. The incident now places immense pressure on Flamengo's remaining medical staff to reassure fans and, more importantly, De La Cruz himself, about his true physical state and his ability to perform at the elite level expected of him at one of South America's biggest clubs. The focus now shifts to how the club will manage the narrative around De La Cruz's health and ensure his successful integration amidst this unforeseen and damaging controversy.