Barcelona have been handed an injury blow in the wake of their 1-0 win over Sevilla as it has emerged that Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury in the first half.
The Blaugrana, who returned to the top of La Liga thanks to an own goal from former Los Blanco icon Sergio Ramos, remain unbeaten so far this campaign with six wins and two stalemates.
However, they were dealt a blow as Raphinha limped out of action 10 minutes before half time, having to be replaced by youngster Fermin Lopez. The Brazilian has started three times in La Liga so far this campaign, but now looks set to be sidelined for some time, the club have confirmed.
“Tests carried out have revealed that Raphinha has a right hamstring injury”, an official statement explained. “He is out and his recovery will determine his availability”.
It means that young talent Lamine Yamal could be thrust into the starting XI despite Xavi trying his best to ease the teenager into proceedings.
“Lamine Yamal is very young and we have to be careful with him. He is already mature but we want to progress with him little by little”, the Barca boss explained in a bid to cool the sky-high expectations surrounding the 16-year-old.
The Catalan giants face a trip to FC Porto in the second game of their Champions League group stage in midweek, before a return to La Liga action against Granada at the weekend, both of which Yamal could start.
Xavi’s side will be watching Girona and Real Madrid with interest, with a win for either side set to take them above the Camp Nou side and into top spot of the Spanish top flight.
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