Maycon Cardozo was one of the big standouts during FC Bayern’s summer training camp. Now, however, the 17-year-old is facing a bitter setback. During the Bayern amateurs’ Regionalliga match against FV Illertissen, the Brazilian injured his shoulder and even had to be taken to the hospital for further examination.
The Munich club has not yet released a specific diagnosis. It is therefore still completely unclear how long Cardozo will be sidelined.
The youngster has since spoken out himself. In an emotional Instagram Story, Cardozo discussed his current situation and made it clear that he doesn’t want to let the injury get him down.
Cardozo: “It’s a difficult and sad moment.”
“It’s a difficult and sad moment for me,” Cardozo wrote alongside a black-and-white photo. At the same time, the devout Brazilian draws strength from his faith: “But I know that God is with me and will protect me.”
Cardozo also expressed his gratitude for the numerous messages and get-well wishes he has received since his injury. His message to Bayern fans is defiant: “I’ll be back soon.”
The 17-year-old also included a Bible verse from the Old Testament in his post: “Have I not commanded you: Be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
However, just how quickly Cardozo can actually return to the field will likely only be determined after a detailed diagnosis. The forward fell on his shoulder during Bayern’s amateur team’s 2-0 win over Illertissen and had to be substituted afterward.
A bitter blow for the Bayern gem
For Cardozo, the injury comes at a particularly inopportune time. The Brazilian had made a remarkable rise in recent months and was working his way closer and closer to the first team.
As early as March 6, the 1.65-meter-tall dribbling wizard made his Bundesliga debut under Vincent Kompany. In the 4-1 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach, Cardozo played for the pros for about half an hour.
In doing so, the youngster also made a small piece of Bayern history. Cardozo is the first player to make the leap to the first team via the international youth selection “FC Bayern World Squad” and the youth academy.
Cardozo also made a lasting impression during summer training. The 17-year-old played in all six preseason matches and impressed with his dynamism and bold play. He was subsequently part of the squad for the 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Franz Beckenbauer Super Cup and took a seat on the bench.
Although Cardozo was no longer part of the professional squad for the Bundesliga opener against VfB Stuttgart, he was still considered one of the young players who could be given further opportunities over the course of the season.
For now, the focus is on his recovery. It remains to be seen just how serious the shoulder injury actually is and how long Cardozo will have to sit out. His first message following this setback makes one thing clear, at least: the 17-year-old is already looking ahead again.