Former Manchester United star Marcos Rojo red carded for reckless challenge against River Plate

Former Manchester United star Marcos Rojo was sent off for a reckless challenge during Boca Juniors’ clash with River Plate. 

The former United centre back was shown a red card in the remaining seconds of the match after he caught River’s Nicolas De la Cruz in the face with a high kick. 

Rojo did not complaint after the referee gave the player his marching orders, luckily for De la Cruz, he was not seriously hurt by the tackle. 

Boca went 1-0 up after Dario Benedetto scored in the 65th minute at the La Bombonera. 

Boca Juniors end the match with 10 men, a straight red card for captain Marcos Rojo. 🟥 pic.twitter.com/GchSrrMuFF

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) September 11, 2022

It was a lucky escape for Rojo as he nearly cost his side all three points in the fierce derby between Argentina’s arch rivals. 

Boca managed to hold on for the much needed three points, as they are now clear of River at the top of the table.

During his time at Old Trafford, Rojo was a favourite amongst the fans as he constantly showed his passion for the team on the pitch. 

Despite his sometimes ill timed reckless challenges, he did not receive a red card in the 122 times that he represented the Red Devils. 

That fact still amazes some United fans to this day, especially after his recent sending off. 

One fan said on Twitter: “Still baffled how he never got sent off for us. 

Another tweeted: “Rojo just being Rojo my man. He and Bailly was just wild.” 

A third fan added: “I still find it mind blowing that Juan Mata got more red cards for United than Marcos Rojo.” 

Straight from the school of Eric Bailly #MUFC

— NWUtd (@nw_utd) September 12, 2022

During his time with United, Rojo managed to get his hands on four trophies. The FA Cup, League Cup, Europa League and the FA Community Shield. 

When he left the club in 2021, he wrote an emotional message to United fans. 

Rojo said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank everybody at Manchester United who have helped me in the last 6 years.

“Since arriving in 2014 I have always felt privileged to be part of this incredible club with so much history. Thank you to all the fans who have always supported me when wearing the Manchester United jersey.

“Now begins a new chapter for me in my career but I will always have Manchester United in my heart.”