Barcelona midfielder Rodri confirmed out with hamstring injury

FC Barcelona has officially confirmed that midfielder Rodri sustained a minor injury to his right hamstring (biceps femoris) during the Champions League match against Aston Villa. The injury, which caused him to be substituted at halftime, will prevent him from participating in the upcoming La Liga fixture against Atletico Madrid.

While the club stated that his exact return timeline depends on his physical evolution, reports suggest he could be sidelined for approximately three to four weeks. This absence will also prevent him from joining the Spanish national team for their upcoming Nations League matches against the Czech Republic and England.

Manager Hansi Flick faces a tactical challenge in replacing the midfielder, who has been a central figure in Barcelona’s system this season. Potential replacements include Marc Bernal, Frenkie de Jong, or Gavi. Rodri’s absence comes at a critical time as Barcelona currently leads La Liga by two points over second-placed Atletico Madrid.