FC Barcelona have had their fair share of bad experiences with international breaks in terms of losing their stars to unwanted injuries that are sustained at times in matches that are worth nothing more than simple friendlies. As a result, their skepticism of letting their players participate in such fixtures has only grown.
The most recent international break thus brought with it certain worries for fans of La Blaugrana as well as the club’s coaching staff regarding the fitness of their players. Ultimately, those worried feelings seem to have been justified.
According to the information provided by Spanish outlet SPORT, 32-year-old German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan suffered a potentially serious injury against the France National Team in the most recent friendly played between the Germans and the French at the SIGNAL IDUNA PARK in Dortmund.
In the 25th minute of the game, the Barcelona midfielder had to be replaced, and in came Pascal Gross in his stead. The midfielder previously went in to compete for a header but due to the mistimed jump, he landed awkwardly on his lower back, causing him severe pain and later showing him to even be in tears due to it.
Seemingly an injury to the bones of the player, new German head coach Ruud Voller later confirmed that while he has indeed suffered an injury, Gundogan has not sustained a fracture and it is more of a bone bruise instead, which comes as a relief in terms of the seriousness of the injury itself.
SPORT believes that it is an injury to the pelvic bone of the player and that is where the bruise is likely located. For now, the player and Barcelona both await further medical clarification to know the exact extent of the injury and how long the former Manchester City star will be out for.
Barcelona will soon welcome Real Betis as well as their opening game of the UEFA Champions League Group Stage against Royal Antwerp at their home stadium. The loss of Gundogan is now paired with that of Pedri and Araujo, leaving a rather significant mark on their midfield depth and quality in particular.
