Olympiacos injury updates ahead of Champions League qualifier

Olympiacos concluded their pre-season friendlies with a 3-2 defeat against AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands. The match saw key players Santiago Hezze and Manolis Saliakas leave the field due to injuries, raising concerns ahead of their official debut against Nijmegen in the third qualifying round of the Champions League.

Hezze, the Argentine midfielder, felt discomfort in the 37th minute and was substituted. Subsequent reports indicate he sustained a minor contusion. However, the injury is not considered severe enough to prevent him from participating in the crucial first leg match at Karaiskakis Stadium on August 4.

Saliakas, the Greek right-back, was also forced off in the 60th minute due to cramps. Medical staff opted for his substitution as a precautionary measure to avoid further injury, despite his desire to continue. Bruno and Carmo also experienced cramps towards the end of the match. All players are expected to be present for training on Tuesday.