Football
Dermot Corrigan, Madrid correspondent 7y

Atletico Madrid striker Kevin Gameiro could miss start of season

Atletico Madrid forward Kevin Gameiro will reportedly miss the start of the new season after undergoing surgery on a groin problem.

Gameiro, 30, was hampered by the problem through the final months of last season, and Atletico's medical staff decided surgery was needed.

While the club have not confirmed an expected return date, reports in Spain say the France interntional will need at least two months to recover.

A club statement said: "Kevin Gameiro has undergone a procedure to his abdominal wall due to the groin issues which the France international suffered during the 2016-17 season.

"The decision to opt for surgery was taken after the forward did not experience any improvement following previous treatment and rest since the end of last season, and after consultation between the club's medical services and specialists in these type of injuries.

"His return date will depend on his recovery."

Gameiro's situation may affect whether or not Atletico offer a new contract to veteran Fernando Torres, whose current deal ends on June 30.

Former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Torres, 33, has said he is hopeful of continuing with his boyhood club, although no progress has yet been made towards an extension of his deal.

Mundo Deportivo reported that the FIFA transfer ban currently imposed on Atletico does not prohibit them from retaining players who are already registered.

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