Sunderland are still waiting to discover when Omar Alderete will be fit again. This is because the defender remained away from full training ahead of Paraguay’s World Cup last-16 clash with France.
According to AS Américas journalist Simón Escudero, the centre-back continues to recover from the muscle strain he suffered during Paraguay’s 1-1 draw with Australia in the group stage on June 26. The injury also kept him out of the subsequent match against Germany.
Also, there is growing uncertainty over whether he will be available for the knockout tie.
AS report Alderete trained separately from the rest of Gustavo Alfaro’s squad after Paraguay arrived in Philadelphia.
Rather than taking part in team sessions, the Sunderland player completed light work and walks around the pitch. He did this alongside the national team’s medical staff.
Sunderland defender facing race against time
Omar Alderete has become one of Paraguay’s most experienced internationals. He is regarded as one of the leaders in Alfaro’s dressing room. Even so, the report explains the manager has no intention of taking unnecessary risks with the defender’s fitness.
The priority is allowing the muscle problem to fully heal before considering a return to action.
That means Alderete will continue working individually over the coming days, with his availability against France remaining in doubt.
Important update for Sunderland
The timing is far from ideal for Sunderland, with Alderete entering what should be a crucial period ahead of the new season.
The 29-year-old enjoyed another regular campaign at club level before heading to the World Cup. He has remained a key figure for Paraguay whenever fit. Yet a prolonged absence would be an unwanted setback as Sunderland prepare for the 2026-27 campaign.
For now, however, the focus remains on his recovery. Paraguay are still hoping the experienced defender can recover in time for one of the biggest matches in the country’s recent history.
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