Ivan Rakitic injury update: Barca midfielder out for ‘2-3 weeks’

Ivan Rakitic injury update: The Barcelona midfielder is reportedly out for 2-3 weeks, owing to right hamstring injury.

Barcelona have been in fine form at the moment. Barring their latest shock 4-3 defeat to Real Betis last weekend, Ernesto Valverde’s side has been solid, even without the contribution from their superstar Lionel Messi.

The Argentine injured his arm during the game against Sevilla, but it hardly dampened the spirits in the Barca camp. Luis Suarez stepped up for the side as Barcelona registered convincing victories over Inter Milan and Real Madrid, before clinching a late winner in the first leg of the Copa del Rey.

However, as Barca fans celebrated the return of Lionel Messi, they received another injury setback.

Ivan Rakitic, who has made 17 appearances for the side since the beginning of the season, has suffered with a right hamstring injury during the international duty with Croatia. He picked up the injury during the game against Spain.

Ivan Rakitic injury update:

The Barcelona midfielder has been vital for Ernesto Valverde’s side so far, and the injury comes as a new blow for Barcelona.

Barcelona confirmed the injury to Rakitic, and released a statement after the game between Croatia and Spain.

“Test carried out on Saturday at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper have confirmed that the player Ivan Rakitic has a strained semimembranosus muscle in his right hamstring. His recovery will dictate his return.

“The player has returned to Barcelona after picking up the injury last Thursday in the game between Croatia and Spain,” the statement read.

Spanish media outlet Sport now reports that Rakitic could be out for two-to-three weeks. The midfielder couldn’t have featured for Barca in the game against Atletico Madrid because he is suspended, but his absence could now further extend.

He might miss the clash against PSV Eindhoven, but could return to the side as Barca host Villareal on December 2.

Arturo Vidal is expected to play in the absence of Ivan Rakitic for the side.

What next?

Barcelona will be up against Atletico Madrid after the end of the international break. The match is significant for both the sides, as Barca is only one point ahead of Atletico Madrid, who are third in the table.