PHOTOS | Sergio Rico nearing PSG return following near-fatal horse-riding accident

It has been nearly a year since Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Sergio Rico (30) suffered a near-fatal horse-riding accident in Sevilla. At the time, there were fears that Rico’s days as a professional player were numbered, however, upon his exit from hospital in August 2023, he voiced a determination to return to the pitch. 

“My ultimate goal is to be ready with the team before the end of the season,” the Spaniard told PSG’s social channels back in September. In November, Rico made a return to the Parc des Princes, saluting the home fans, however, a return still seemed a long way away. 

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Rico, during his coma, lost 20kg. “I looked like a toothpick,” said the goalkeeper, referring to his diminished physical state. Given the gravity of the injury, Rico needed the green light from doctors in order to return to training. That authorisation was given earlier this month, according to RMC Sport. 

In pictures, shared by PSG, Rico was shown undergoing physical tests at the club’s Campus training ground. Those tests, the club stated, will allow PSG to assess Rico’s fitness, which will then allow for an individual training plan to be devised. Whilst it is unlikely that Rico will play again for Les Parisiens before the end of the season, he is nonetheless taking considerable steps towards returning to action. 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle