Injury crisis: Barcelona’s Cancelo faces knee injury, return date uncertain
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Barcelona's Cancelo limps off against Las Palmas || Image credit: Imago

Injury crisis: Barcelona’s Cancelo faces knee injury, return date uncertain

Faruq Ibrahim 21:15 - 05.01.2024

Joao Cancelo joins Barcelona's long list of absentees due to injury.

Barcelona's first-team player, João Cancelo, has suffered a setback with a strained medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his left knee. This injury occurred during Barcelona's recent LaLiga match against Las Palmas, where Cancelo had to leave the field just 11 minutes into the game. 

Following medical tests, the extent of the injury was confirmed, sidelining the defender for an indefinite period. Cancelo's injury implies that he will miss upcoming crucial fixtures, including the Copa del Rey clash against Barbastro and possibly the Spanish Super Cup scheduled in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

Cancelo a big miss

Barcelona is set to face Osasuna in the semi-finals of the Super Cup, and the final could see them play against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.

The duration of Cancelo's absence from the team is dependent on his recovery process. Typically, MCL strains can require around three weeks of recovery, but this can vary based on the injury's severity. 

Cancelo suffered an injury against Las Palmas \\ iMAGE CREDIT: iMAGO
Cancelo suffered an injury against Las Palmas \\ iMAGE CREDIT: iMAGO

This injury is a significant blow for Barcelona, considering Cancelo's impactful performances since joining the club on loan from Manchester City last September. In his tenure at Barcelona, he has made 22 appearances and scored three goals, becoming a vital part of the team's defence.

Cancelo's injury and subsequent recovery period will be closely monitored, as his presence in the team's defensive lineup is crucial, especially during this intense phase of the season with multiple competitions underway.

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