Lucas Di Yorio faces three-month injury layoff after Leagues Cup tackle

Santos Laguna striker Lucas Di Yorio will be sidelined for at least three months following a severe tibia injury sustained during a Leagues Cup 2026 match against Chicago Fire. The Argentine forward suffered a fracture and a deep wound after a heavy tackle by defender Jack Elliot. Medical reports indicate Di Yorio requires surgery to address the injury, with a potential return to action as early as November.

Club Santos Laguna has filed a formal complaint with Concacaf regarding the officiating during the incident. The club and the player criticized referee Reginald Gumbs for failing to consult the VAR despite the severity of the tackle. Di Yorio expressed frustration on social media, stating that the referee’s only response to the incident was to instruct him to change his blood-stained socks rather than addressing the gravity of the foul.

Following the 3-1 defeat to Chicago, Santos Laguna has been eliminated from the tournament. The club's management expressed deep frustration over the lack of protection for players during such dangerous plays.