Alexander Aravena
POT
Left Winger
Center Midfielder
Wide Forward
Sep 6, 2002 (24)
Right
5'10"
154 lb
Bench option Saturday
Aravena (hip) is on the bench for Saturday's matchup versus San Jose Earthquakes.
Analysis: Aravena has finally been cleared to see action following a two-month injury recovery. His return adds attacking power to a Timbers bench that is now strengthened for the rest of the season. While he has scored one goal over 14 MLS appearances this year, he's likely to serve as a backup option behind Kristoffer Velde in the short term.
Taking part in full training
Aravena (hip) took part in full training Tuesday and could have an outside chance to play against San Jose on Saturday, according to Timbers reporter Adam Susman.
Analysis: Aravena hasn't played for the Timbers since July 26, and with just one goal and four starts in his 14 league appearances, he's been a disappointment for a Portland side that hoped for more when he joined from Gremio in Brazilian Serie A. The Chilean winger has missed the Timbers' last nine league matches, but now that he's back in training, he could be an option off the bench when the Timbers take on San Jose this Saturday. If not, he should be ready to play against Sporting KC on Oct. 10 after the international break.
Facing longer term absence
Aravena is dealing with a longer term injury tied to his hip issue, according to coach Jack Cassidy, per Jeremy Peterman.
Analysis: Aravena had already been ruled out for the time being after the initial hip injury was announced, and this update confirms his absence will extend beyond a short term issue, with a timeline of six to eight weeks expected. Portland's wide attack loses a dynamic piece without him, with the club needing to lean on Antony and Ariel Lassiter as its main sources of goals and creativity in the meantime. Aravena is expected to be reassessed as his recovery progresses.
Out with hip injury
Aravena (hip) has been ruled out for the time being after picking up a hip injury, the league announced Friday.
Analysis: Aravena has been one of Portland's most creative and direct attacking options from the left flank when given enough playing time. Without him, Portland's wide attack loses a dynamic piece, and the club will need to rely on Antony and Ariel Lassiter as its main sources of goals and creativity. The severity of the hip problem will determine whether this is a short-term absence or something that costs the Chilean more significant time.
Scores late in Thursday's win
Aravena scored one goal to go with two shots (one on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and one corner in Thursday's 5-1 win over Seattle Sounders FC.
Analysis: Aravena poured salt in Seattle's wounds Thursday, bagging a close-range goal in the 98th minute to give his side a four-goal victory over their rivals. It marked his first goal contribution of the season despite him appearing in all but one match to this point. He also recorded one inaccurate cross and one corner in his 17 minutes off the bench.
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