Stephan Lichtsteiner's surgery could call for a longer recovery time than expected as sources suggest he won't play for six months.
The player went under the knife for breathing difficulties, but initial estimations placed his return at one month.
However Il Corriere dello Sport interviewed a globally-renowned cardiologist, who painted a substantially bleaker picture.
Stephan Lichtsteiner's surgery could call for a longer recovery time than expected as sources suggest he won't play for six months.
The player went under the knife for breathing difficulties, but initial estimations placed his return at one month.
However Il Corriere dello Sport interviewed a globally-renowned cardiologist, who painted a substantially bleaker picture.
“By law, six months have to pass before the player can return to the pitch,” said Bruno Caru.
“One has to evaluate the response to the operation and the disappearance of the [cardiac] arrhythmia.
“There's an 8 per cent chance the operation didn't work out, in which case another operation will be necessary.
“Juventus in any case worked with Professor Gaita, one of the best.
“His career is absolutely not over. The lad's heart is healthy. He'll return to playing, but it'll take a bit of patience.”