The past few weeks have not been easy for Barcelona, following their elimination in the Copa del Rey and after being destroyed by Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final. Now, another issue has emerged that will make things even more complicated for Xavi Hernández and his staff.
Earlier today, reports started to emerge about the fitness of one of their players, and the worst possible scenario was confirmed when the team's medical staff revealed that Alejandro Balde will have to undergo surgery after picking up an injury in their clash against Athletic Club.
The footballer left the game with a muscular injury to his right leg, and given the complications it could present on the long run, along with the extended recovery time, the player could miss up to four months. With that in mind, Balde may have played his final game of the season.
According to TV3, the press release from the club will come in a few hours, once the club and agent Jorge Mendes agree which surgeon will take care of the procedure.
Balde's injury will give Xavi quite a few headaches, mainly because the footballer was the only left-back available after Marcos Alonso's injury. This setback will force Joao Cancelo to play on the left side of the pitch, while Jules Koundé will have to move to the right flank.
This will be the second season-ending injury for a Barcelona player in the current campaign, following Gavi's knee injury back in November.
