The loss of stars to injury is always hard for Barcelona, but certain losses hurt more. Already this season, the Catalan giants have lost several key players to the infirmary and currently have them sidelined. Barcelona now go deeper into their second half of the season with even more problems.
Previously, Barcelona had losses across several positions on the field. Marc Andre Ter Stegen, Gavi, Marcos Alonso, and Inigo Martinez were all sidelined. The latter, however, will be back for the next cup game. Now, following the game against Las Palmas, another name got added to that growing list.
Joao Cancelo, a key player for Barça, went down injured and had to be replaced in the opening 10 minutes. Early reports suggested that his injury could be concerning. However, Barcelona now have an exact idea of his problem.
As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, Cancelo has suffered a mild MCL strain. This has been confirmed by the official Barcelona sources as well. Fortunately, the problem is not a ligament tear or something equally bad. In terms of how bad his injury is, a mild strain is still something that Barcelona will breathe a sigh of relief with.
However, it is yet to be understood just how long the player will remain sidelined for. Typically, mild MCL strains take close to 2-4 weeks to recover fully. As per Javi Miguel, Cancelo’s expected recovery will take close to 2-3 weeks.
It now depends on Cancelo’s own sensations and recovery progression to determine when he returns. Until and unless the player himself feels ready to return, no decision over his availability can be made.
With the Spanish Super Cup being right up ahead, Cancelo’s availability is definitely in jeopardy. Although, unlike certain other positions, Xavi has a proven back line to counter such a loss. With Inigo Martinez also returning, Barça have both Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo as capable right-back alternatives.
Right up next for Barcelona, however, is a Copa Del Ray fixture. Taking on Barbastro away from home, the Round of 32 will be a singular opportunity for both sides. A win will be crucial, and Xavi will need to sort out his game plan ahead of time.
