Young Uruguayan striker Mario Bruno Bentancur dies aged 22 after cardiac arrest during turbulent spell in Argentina

Young Uruguayan forward Mario Bruno Bentancur has died at the age of 22 after suffering a sudden cardiorespiratory arrest, in a case that has shocked football in Uruguay.

His death on Wednesday was confirmed by Deportivo Italiano, the amateur club where he most recently played in Uruguay.

In an official statement, the club said: “Bola, your memory will remain forever in every goal celebration, every hug, and in the hearts of everyone at this club – your club, Deportivo Italiano. Rest in peace.”

Bentancur, a graduate of the renowned Penarol youth academy, had travelled to Buenos Aires only days before his death for a trial with Argentine top-flight side Deportivo Riestra.

The Primera Division club ultimately chose not to offer him a contract, and he returned to Uruguay without signing.

Controversy during Deportivo Riestra trial

During his short spell on trial at Deportivo Riestra, Bentancur was at the centre of significant controversy in Argentina.

Local reports said he was accused of stealing clothing belonging to several Riestra players while he was training with the club.

The allegations made headlines in the Argentine press and overshadowed his bid to secure a deal. Bentancur left the country shortly afterwards, with Deportivo Riestra deciding against adding him to their squad.

No further details were given in the Uruguayan reports about the circumstances of his death beyond the confirmation of a sudden cardiorespiratory arrest.

Renewed focus on player health

Bentancur’s passing adds to a distressing list of recent tragedies involving young footballers who have suffered unexpected cardiac episodes.

His death has again prompted questions within the sport over the adequacy of medical testing and ongoing health monitoring for players, particularly at youth and lower-league levels.

Cardiac screening protocols vary widely between countries and divisions, and experts have repeatedly called for stricter and more consistent checks to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac events among athletes.

In Uruguay, the news has been met with deep sadness across the football community, from those who followed his progress through Penarol’s youth ranks to those who played alongside him at Deportivo Italiano.

While his senior career was still in its early stages, Bentancur’s story – from a prestigious academy upbringing, to a troubled trial abroad, to his sudden death at 22 – has been cited in local media as a poignant reminder of both the pressures facing young professionals and the importance of robust medical safeguards in the game.