Matías Acuña, a 33-year-old Uruguayan footballer, was found dead on Saturday, January 4, in a hotel in Ecuador. Reports indicate that he took his own life. He was a father of two daughters.

Acuña, who played in Greece for AEL and Lamia, was a member of Ecuadorian club Mushuc Runa and had started pre-season training for the new season in Ambato, Ecuador.

“We, as a club, will provide all necessary support to facilitate the repatriation of the body. Everyone at Mushuc Runa is devastated by this,” said Luis Chango, the president of the football club, in a statement to PRIMICIAS.

Accusations of Domestic Violence

In December 2024, Acuña had been accused of domestic violence by his former partner. Following a prosecutor’s decision, he was required to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet.

In response to this decision, Acuña made a post on Instagram, stating:
“I must first inform you why they put the electronic bracelet on me. The judge explained to me that it’s a precautionary measure, not because I’m guilty. That’s how the laws in this country work.”

He added, “I have two daughters, and I want them to be respected and cared for as they should be. I was born of a woman! I have nothing more to say, and this is the last thing I will write about what’s happening. A big hug, and thank you to those who are there for me!”

Acuña denied the accusations and claimed that the incident allowed him to end a toxic relationship that had lasted for years.

His Career in Greece and Sudden Departure

Matías Acuña played for AEL from January 2021 to February 2022, scoring nine goals in 37 appearances.

He returned to Greece in July 2023 to join PAS Lamia and played in the Super League 1. Wearing the Lamia jersey, he appeared in 16 matches before leaving the team in January 2024 for personal reasons.

“PAS Lamia 1964 announces the mutual termination of the contract with player Matías Acuña. The Uruguayan striker, who joined the team in July 2023, made 16 appearances and scored three goals. He expressed a desire to leave the club for personal reasons. Respecting his wish, we thank him for his contribution and wish him all the best in his future career,” stated PAS Lamia in an official announcement regarding his departure.

After leaving Lamia, Acuña joined Phoenix in Uruguay and later moved to Mushuc Runa in Ecuador during the summer of 2024.

Acuña’s Final Social Media Post

Just hours before taking his life, Matías Acuña posted a story on his Instagram account:
“Make money, because money doesn’t become scarce overnight,” the post read.

AEL’s Tribute

Shortly after the news of his death, AEL issued a statement expressing their condolences:
“Everyone at AEL is shocked by the news of Matías Acuña’s death. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.
Matías, we will never forget you…”

His Last Interview

A few hours before his death, Matías Acuña gave an on-camera interview at the airport upon arriving in Ecuador.

“I’m happy to be here. I’m looking forward to the first training session so we can prepare well and get closer to achieving the club’s goals, which include a successful international and domestic tournament.”

He continued, “Our ambition is clear – we all want to succeed in both international and local tournaments. The coaching staff has won a lot, and that winning mentality is contagious.

The club is well-organized, and they support me, which is crucial for a player. It makes me feel good.

Of course, the financial aspect matters because, in the end, we are here to work. But I must also highlight the people within the club, who make me feel very comfortable and respected,” he said during his last public appearance.