Costa Rica expels three players due to violent incidents outside a bar

Costa Rica’s national football team has taken disciplinary action against three players, expelling them from the squad following their alleged involvement in violent incidents outside a bar. Midfielder Alejandro Bran, winger Kenneth Vargas, and forward Warren Madrigal have been removed from the team’s concentration ahead of upcoming friendly matches.

Player Dismissals

The decision to remove Alejandro Bran, Kenneth Vargas, and Warren Madrigal from the Costa Rican squad was announced by the Costa Rican Football Federation (FCRF). The incidents are reported to have occurred in the early hours of Monday morning. Bran, who plays for Alajuelense, was the first to be removed. Later that day, the FCRF confirmed that Vargas, also of Alajuelense, and Madrigal, who plays for Nashville in the United States, would also be leaving the team.

Federation Statement

The FCRF stated in a communiqué that the decision was made by the technical staff, led by Argentine coach Fernando ‘Bocha’ Batista, and aligns with established guidelines for all national team members. “Discipline and respect for the rules are fundamental pillars in all our selections. These values are an essential part of the responsibility that comes with representing the country,” the federation added.

Details of the Incident

According to reports, the incident involved Bran’s car receiving several bullet impacts near a bar located on the outskirts of Montes de Oca, in the eastern part of the capital, San José. This occurred apparently after an altercation inside the establishment. Authorities are currently investigating the events. The serious incident took place just hours before the players were scheduled to begin training with the national team under Batista.

Upcoming Matches and Team Renovation

Costa Rica is preparing for friendly matches against Colombia on Monday in Bogotá and against England on June 10 in the United States. The team did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup and is currently undergoing a rebuilding process under Batista, with an eye towards the 2030 World Cup. Batista had initially called up 28 players for these friendlies, and no immediate replacements have been announced for the expelled players.

Club Actions

The club Alajuelense also announced on Tuesday the separation of Bran and Vargas from their team. This is not the first disciplinary issue for these two players, as they had reportedly been sanctioned for acts of indiscipline months prior.

Datos clave

This development highlights the strict disciplinary measures being enforced within the Costa Rican national team as they embark on a period of renewal. The expulsion of these players underscores the federation’s commitment to upholding standards of conduct, even as they look towards future tournaments.

Fuente: Mundo Deportivo Futbol – https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/america/20260527/1004188192/costa-rica-aparta-tres-jugadores-incidentes-violentos-fuera-bar.html