Copete begins countdown to return after left knee surgery | OneFootball

Copete has begun the countdown to his return after successful surgery on his left knee, starting a recovery that will sideline him for the rest of the season, although a late comeback could arrive in the final weeks if his progress is very positive.

The operation was performed by orthopaedic surgeon Ignacio Muñoz Criado and supervised by Dr Pedro López, head of Valencia's medical services. Valencia said in a medical note that he would remain in hospital for the next few hours for ongoing clinical monitoring. He will then begin rehabilitation with the club's physios.

His absence is significant for Carlos Corberán, for whom he was a trusted centre-back. His last match came at La Cerámica against Villarreal, where meniscus discomfort ultimately sent him to the operating theatre.

Yesterday was the first match without the Andalusian in the squad, and the coach turned to Cömert and Unai Núñez. The pairing performed well, keeping a clean sheet.

Copete now joins long-term absentees Diakhaby and Foulquier, who will miss the remainder of the season after major injuries that also required surgery. Corberán must finish the campaign without three important defensive pieces.

Source: AS