João Cancelo and FC Barcelona have received some good news following the Portuguese full-back’s injury scare on Thursday night.
Cancelo was forced off in the 10th minute of Barça’s 2-1 win over Las Palmas after suffering a knee injury. The 29-year-old was seen clutching his knee in pain as he left the pitch, sparking fears of a serious injury.
However, the club released a statement on Friday morning confirming that Cancelo had suffered a lateral collateral ligament sprain. The injury is not as serious as a ligament rupture, but it is still likely to keep Cancelo out of action for several weeks.
“The tests carried out this morning revealed that first-team player João Cancelo suffered a sprain of the medial collateral ligament of his left knee,” the club statement read. “The duration of his absence will depend on his recovery.”
Cancelo’s injury is a blow to Barça, who are already without Sergiño Dest due to a hamstring injury. The Catalan club are now facing a defensive crisis, with Ronald Araújo and Dani Alves also out injured.
MEDICAL NEWS | Tests carried out this morning have revealed that first team player João Cancelo has a left MCL strain. He is out and his recovery will determine his availability. pic.twitter.com/r5tMSgGhl2
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 5, 2024
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