Argentinean defender Javier Zanetti ruptured his left Achilles tendon during Inter Milan's 1-0 loss to Palermo and was rushed to the hospital immediately to repair the damage.
Despite the successful repair, Zanetti, 39, will not make a comeback until the end of the year, according to his surgeon, Franco Benazzo.
There were fears the injury could have ended his career, or at least his run as an elite player, but as of now the 39-year-old is expected to be sidelined for only six months.
"The operation lasted for 60-75 minutes, it all went perfectly," said Benazzo. "I just spoke to his wife now and we all know he is an important player for people all over the world. Now Javier will spend three weeks with his foot immobilized, then a second phase in which he will start walking. We expect a period of six months for a full recovery, as shown by recent examples."
Known as "El Pupi" Zanetti made his debut for Inter Milan in 1995, and has been playing for them ever since. He was won 16 trophies with the club, 15 of which have been under his captaincy.
He has over 600 games and 12 goals under his belt with Inter, holds the most caps with the Nerazzurri jersey, and holds the record for longest streak without a red card, 12 years.
When asked how Zanetti had prepared for the operation, Dr. Benazzo said, "Have you ever seen captain Zanetti looking shaken? He was relaxed, nothing to worry about. He will remain in the clinic until Thursday, then I'll keep an eye on him at the Appiano Gentile training ground and at his home."
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