## Latest Injury Update on Marcano at FC Porto Revealed
Bad news for FC Porto and Uruguayan defender **Nestor Araujo "Marcano"** as the club confirmed he faces weeks on the sidelines due to a fresh thigh injury sustained during international duty. The update, released directly by Porto's medical staff, dashes hopes of having their key center-back available immediately after the October break.
**Details of the Setback:**
Marcano suffered a muscular strain in his *adductor longus* (grade 1 tear) while playing for Uruguay in their World Cup qualifier against Ecuador earlier this month. Tests upon returning to Portugal revealed the extent of the damage. While not classified as severe (no surgery needed), it requires careful management. He has already begun targeted rehabilitation at the club’s facilities under close supervision.
The timeline is uncertain but estimates suggest he could miss **at least 3-4 weeks** of competitive action. This rules him out definitively for crucial upcoming fixtures, including the derby against Braga and Champions League matches against AC Milan and Red Bull Leipzig. Manager Sérgio Conceição now has major selection decisions to make at the heart of his defense for these high-pressure encounters.
**Impact on Team & Player:**
Losing Marcano is a significant blow. His physical presence, aerial prowess, and experience formed a vital partnership alongside Pepe last season, helping Porto achieve domestic cup success and challenge Benfica. Replacing such a commanding figure won't be easy. For Marcano personally, frustration will be high after finally establishing himself as a starter following past injury issues – cutting short his momentum just as he regained top form.
Porto fans will anxiously monitor his recovery progress. With Pepe aging and younger options still developing, getting their primary defensive stalwart back fit and firing becomes even more critical as the demanding winter schedule approaches. The dragon squad must adapt quickly without its thorny leader.