Torino captain Duvan Zapata a major doubt for Cremona clash

Torino captain Duvan Zapata is a serious doubt for Sunday's Serie A match against Cremonese, according to reports from Italy. The veteran striker is battling a muscular injury to his right thigh that has already forced him to miss the club's last two fixtures against Verona and Pisa.

As the Granata resumed training on Friday, Zapata was limited to individual work on the sidelines, a clear indication that his recovery is not yet complete. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that a return to action at the Stadio Giovanni Zini this weekend now appears "very difficult." The club has not provided an official update on a potential return date for their leading scorer.

Zapata's potential absence represents a significant blow for Ivan Juric's side as they seek to consolidate a mid-table position. The 33-year-old Colombian international has been a pivotal figure since joining from Atalanta last summer, bringing physicality and experience to Torino's attack. His injury comes at an inopportune moment with the season entering its final stretch.

In further concerning news for Torino, winger Zakaria Aboukhlal remains in the Netherlands following a procedure to clean out his right knee. The Moroccan's extended absence further depletes Juric's attacking options ahead of the trip to face a Cremonese side fighting relegation.

The situation underscores the fitness challenges Torino are navigating as they aim to finish the campaign strongly. With Zapata's leadership and goal threat potentially missing, increased responsibility may fall on other forwards like Antonio Sanabria and Pietro Pellegri to deliver in a crucial away fixture.