Gloucester Rugby director of rugby George Skivington has confirmed that Argentine lock Matias Alemanno’s season is officially over due to complications from a shoulder injury.
The 33-year-old, who has earned 96 international caps for Argentina, initially sustained a shoulder injury in January that required surgery. Expected to return by April to strengthen Gloucester’s second row as the season progressed, Alemanno faced an unexpected setback when an infection developed in his shoulder during recovery.
Skivington explained: “Matty is out for the season. He had to have his shoulder reopened and cleaned out due to an infection. Thankfully, he didn’t need another surgery, but this delayed his recovery by another one or two months, meaning the rest of the season is lost.”
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Despite the best efforts, the infection emerged without warning, causing significant discomfort and halting Alemanno’s rehabilitation. Prior to the injury, Alemanno had featured in 11 games for Gloucester this season, proving himself as one of the Gallagher Premiership’s premier locks.
In his absence, younger talents have seized the opportunity to shine. Wales international Freddie Thomas and England squad call-up Arthur Clark have impressed, with Clark poised to tour Argentina with England in the summer. Cam Jordan and Freddie Clarke have also stepped up, providing consistent performances and bolstering Gloucester’s forward pack.
While Alemanno’s absence is a blow, Gloucester is optimistic about the prospects of their emerging players contributing to the team’s success moving forward.