Overview

• Players refused to enter pre-match concentration for the El Nacional game after a promised partial payment on September 20 did not arrive, according to local reporting.
• Emelec still played and won that fixture, with coach Guillermo Duró speaking post-match about the squad and player availability.
• Christian Cueva received a two-match suspension for violent conduct in the 4–0 loss to Barcelona SC and is also dealing with a quadriceps myofascial injury.
• Duró said Cueva was granted permission to travel to Peru to be evaluated by his personal doctor as he continues recovery.
• Club president Jorge Guzmán Mancilla admitted salaries are not up to date and said the organization is working to pay, while reports say arrears stretch to several months and note FIFA rules that could allow players to seek exits if non-payment continues.