Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez has been ruled out for around four weeks with a hamstring injury.
The 33-year-old centre-back was forced off 28 minutes into Barcelona’s 5-2 win over Real Madrid in Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final.
A club statement said Martinez underwent tests on Tuesday and is expected to miss “around four weeks” with an injury to his right hamstring.
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The former Real Sociedad defender has become an integral member of Hansi Flick’s side this season, starting all but one of Barcelona’s La Liga and Champions League games.
The timeframe for his recovery means the Spain international is now set to miss Barcelona’s next seven fixtures in all competitions, beginning with their Copa del Rey last-16 tie against Real Betis on Wednesday evening.
It remains to be seen whether Martinez’s absence will affect Barcelona’s stance on Ronald Araujo, who has been linked with a January move away from the club.
The Athletic reported that Juventus were interested in signing the Uruguay international, who is under contract at Camp Nou until 2026.
The 25-year-old has been offered fresh terms but sources close to the player who are not authorised to speak publicly believe he is worth more than what the La Liga side are offering.
Barcelona would only countenance a permanent sale if a significant offer is brought to the table, with Flick keen for Araujo to remain part of his squad.
After Real Betis, Barcelona return to action against Getafe on Saturday before resuming their Champions League campaign away to Benfica three days later.
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Hansi Flick has created an oasis of calm amid institutional chaos at Barcelona
(Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
