Barcelona have been plagued with injuries this season and it appears that the Catalan giants have been dealt another blow during their Champions League game against BATE tonight.
Croatian midfielder Ivan Rakitic has picked up a calf injury and is set to be sidelined for four weeks. The midfield maestro could miss the massive derby against Real Madrid later this month.
The news was confirmed by Spanish broadcasting station TV3.
Re Rakitic injury. Initial reports suggest the Croatian has a damaged calf muscle and will be out for approximately 4 weeks
— AS English (@English_AS) November 4, 2015
Rakitic has been a key player for the Spanish champions since his move from Sevilla and his absence will be a huge blow against Real Madrid.
Rafa Benitez’ side could take a key step in the title race with a win against Barcelona in the Clasico later this month and Rakitic missing the game only makes it easier for them.
The Los Blancos have started their season impressively and are still unbeaten in all competitions.
With the Argentine superstar Lionel Messi likely to miss the crunch clash against arch rivals Real Madrid, Barcelona fans will be rocked with the news of Rakitic’s calf muscle damage.
It will be interesting to see who Luis Enrique fields against Villarreal and then Real Madrid in the upcoming league games.
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