EL CLÁSICO
João Felix injured: will the Barcelona star miss El Clásico against Real Madrid?
The Portuguese forward set off alarm bells after leaving the pitch in the 75th minute of the match against Shakhtar, adding to Xavi’s problems.
There was good news and bad news for Barcelona as they ended Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk. A third consecutive win means qualification for the knockout stage is almost guaranteed. That’s the positive. João Félix having to leave the field in the 75th minute fulfils the other criteria, with thoughts already on Saturday’s El Clásico against their biggest rivals, Real Madrid.
How it happened: Fermín the star as Barça survive Shakhtar scare
Will João Félix play against Real Madrid?
The Portuguese player appeared to have sustained a leg knock, one that left him lying on the ground in pain. Xavi decided to substitute him immediately, with Marc Guiu taking his place, while Félix left the field accompanied by the medical staff, with concerned expressions all over their faces. However, after initially saying something to his coach, the player chose to stay on the bench, which could be a positive sign.
Nevertheless, pending a diagnosis of the injury suffered by the Portuguese forward, there is cause for concern for Xavi ahead of the Clásico this Saturday at Montjuïc. The Barcelona team is grappling with a wave of physical problems that have left them with limited resources, and it has particularly affected the attack. The recent good news is that it appears Lewandowski and Raphinha are recovering well, which increases their chances of being available against Madrid.
Xavi knew he would be without Pedri, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha for the UCL game, but it is hoped they will be available to feature in El Clásico against Real Madrid on Saturday. Match sharpness is clearly in doubt.
Frenkie de Jong, Jules Koundé and Sergi Roberto have already been ruled out of the clash against Los Blancos.