Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove is awake and alert in hospital after his dramatic collapse during Sunday’s Serie A match against Inter Milan.
The 22-year-old, who spent the night in intensive care at Florence’s Careggi hospital, is now able to speak and no longer requires breathing assistance.
Fiorentina confirmed on Monday that Bove has spoken with his family, club management, coach and teammates, who rushed to visit him upon hearing the positive news.
The incident occurred in the 17th minute of Sunday’s match in Florence, when Bove suddenly collapsed seconds after bending down to adjust his boot during a VAR check.
Edoardo Bove collapsed on the pitch on Sunday night
Reuters
Medical staff quickly rushed onto the pitch whilst Fiorentina players formed a protective ring around their fallen teammate.
The midfielder was swiftly taken away by ambulance, leading the referee to direct the visibly shaken and emotional players back to the dressing room.
The match was subsequently abandoned and will be replayed at a later date.
“Thank you everyone,” were Bove’s first words after regaining consciousness, according to Italian media reports.
The club stated that Bove “was awakened and extubated this morning” and is currently “awake, alert and oriented” at the Careggi hospital.
Initial tests conducted on Sunday evening have already ruled out any serious damage to his central nervous and cardio-respiratory systems.
A Fiorentina statement confirmed: “Further tests will be carried out in the coming days to establish the causes that led to the critical situation that occurred.”
Serie A officials will meet on Monday afternoon to determine when the suspended match will be completed.
There were terrifying scenes as Edoardo Bove needed an ambulance on the pitch
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Italian media reports suggest the fixture may not be played until February.
Bove, who joined Fiorentina on loan from AS Roma in August, has made a significant impact this season.
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Edoardo Bove has spoken to his family after regaining conciousness
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The young midfielder has featured in 14 appearances for the Florence club, contributing four assists and scoring one goal.
His talents have also been recognised at international level, having earned several caps for Italy’s Under-21 team.