Hernesto Caballero refuses to leave Libertad despite being on transfer list

Veteran midfielder Hernesto Ezequiel Caballero is defying Libertad's decision to release him, insisting on staying with the club until his contract expires at the end of the season. Caballero, 35, is listed among the players not being retained by new coach Nelson Haedo Valdez, but he has rejected the club's proposal for a contract termination.

Sources indicate that Caballero's refusal stems from financial considerations, as he is unlikely to secure a comparable salary at another Paraguayan club. He is reportedly determined to remain at the club's training ground, La Huerta, and fight for a place in the squad, even if it means training separately from the first team.

Caballero, who hails from San Juan Bautista, Misiones, has had a career that progressed from modest clubs to significant stints, including a notable period with Olimpia. His time at Libertad has been considered a career highlight, marked by successes such as winning multiple league titles, a Copa Paraguay, and a Supercopa Paraguay. He also earned call-ups to the national team, participating in six matches, including Copa América and World Cup qualifiers.

Libertad has confirmed other departures, including Jorge Recalde, Diego Viera, Hugo Martínez, Matías Rojas, and Iván Ramírez, making Caballero's stance a notable exception.