Brazilian defender David Luiz has admitted he has a 'serious problem' after being forced off during a match for Flamengo.
According to reports in Brazil, the former Chelsea and Arsenal centre back is suffering from viral hepatitis, which resulted in him experiencing extreme fatigue.
It has been reported that Luiz wasn’t sleeping properly and was showing many signs of fatigue.
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Luiz’s Flamengo were in action in the Brazilian Cup semi final first leg and he was replaced by Fabricio Bruno at half time, his team ended up winning the match 3-1.
Flamengo’s medical team will now undergo further examinations to determine the severity of Luiz’s problem as he looked dejected on the bench during the second half.
Luiz spoke about his condition after the match.
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He told TV Globo: “Look, I have a little more serious problem. I'm going to do some tests. Then I'll tell you what it is.”
This is Luiz’s second season with the Brazilian side after signing for them from Arsenal last September.
Since his return to his home land, he has been in and out of the Flamengo side. He recently completed the full 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Palmeiras in the Brazilian league on Sunday.
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Flamengo manager Dorival Junior also spoke about Luiz after the match.
He said: “It's natural that it's a worrying situation. I believe that tomorrow the medical department should give us some information.
“I prefer to leave it without me saying anything, because it would also be frivolous to say something about an athlete who has been pre-evaluated by the medical department.
“Tomorrow, for sure, we will have something more tangible and safer to share with everyone.”
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Flamengo have a busy schedule ahead of them as the currently sit third in the Brazilian Serie A table, nine points adrift of leaders Palmeiras.
Next month, they will take on Argentine outfit Velez Sarsfield in the Copa Libertadores semi final.
The club will be hoping that Luiz’s issue isn’t as serious as first thought.
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During his time in England, Luiz won one Premier League and Champions League title with Chelsea. With Arsenal, he won the FA Cup and the FA Community Shield. In his peak, he was often regarded as one of the finest centre backs in European football.
Topics: David Luiz, Flamengo, Arsenal, Chelsea
Marcus Chan