Castellón take firm stance on Cipenga case, Pablo Hernández says club will act | OneFootball

Castellón are taking a firm line over the Cipenga case, with head coach Pablo Hernández saying the club will act to prevent a repeat of the winger’s prolonged absence.

According to Superdeporte, Hernández confirmed Cipenga will not face Granada at SkyFi Castalia on Monday 6 April 2026, making it a fourth consecutive game out.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo call-up for the 2026 World Cup qualifying play-off had already kept him out against Cultural Leonesa, Albacete Balompié and UD Almería. With the national team celebrating success back home, the player is believed to still be in his country amid confusion over whether he has been held back by football or political authorities.

Hernández said the club, which pays his wages, can accept losing him for international commitments, but not beyond that because of external retention. He added that appropriate measures would be studied so it does not happen again.

In better news, Awer Mabil has trained with the group for two days after a long trip and is available for selection.

Looking ahead, Cipenga is likely to be called up for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, which could see him miss the final LaLiga Hypermotion matchday and any potential play-off.

Source: Superdeporte