Costa Rica have dropped three players from their squad ahead of upcoming international friendlies against Colombia and England following disciplinary concerns linked to an alleged gunshot incident.
Among those removed from the squad is Kenneth Vargas, alongside Warren Madrigal and Alejandro Bran.
Costa Rica are scheduled to face Colombia on June 1 in Bogota before taking on England on June 10 in Orlando.
Local authorities are reportedly investigating an alleged altercation outside a bar in the Los Yoses area of San Jose during the early hours of Monday morning.
According to reports, Bran’s vehicle was struck by multiple bullets during the incident.
While the Costa Rican Football Federation did not directly reference the alleged shooting, the federation confirmed Bran’s removal from the squad in an official statement.
“The necessary conditions for his continued participation with the team are not met.”
Hours later, the federation released another statement confirming the exclusion of Vargas and Madrigal from the national team camp.
“This decision follows established guidelines for all members of the national teams.
“The FCRF reiterates that discipline and respect for the rules are fundamental pillars for all our national teams. These values are an essential part of the responsibility that comes with representing the country.”
Costa Rican club Alajuelense also responded swiftly by separating Bran and Vargas from the organisation.
Vargas is currently on loan at the club from Hearts until the end of December.
“Liga Deportiva Alajuelense informs that, after an exhaustive analysis of recent events and in strict adherence to the principles that govern our institution, it has made the decision to immediately separate players Alejandro Bran and Kenneth Vargas from the organization,” the club statement read.
The controversy arrives during a rebuilding phase for Costa Rica after the nation failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Fernando Batista was appointed national team coach in March and is contracted through to the 2030 World Cup cycle.
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