Barcelona midfielder Rodri Hernández has been confirmed to have suffered a tear in the biceps femoris of his right leg, ruling him out for approximately four weeks.
The injury occurred during the UEFA Champions League match against Aston Villa, where Rodri was substituted at halftime after experiencing muscular discomfort. Medical tests on Wednesday confirmed the extent of the damage.
The Spanish international will miss Sunday's LaLiga clash against Atlético de Madrid, as well as upcoming league fixtures against Villarreal, Deportivo, and Celta de Vigo. He will also be absent for the Champions League group stage match against Sabah. However, there is optimism that he could return for the European encounter against Manchester City.
Key figure for club and country
Rodri has been a central figure in Hansi Flick's plans this season. In LaLiga he has started eight of ten matches, accumulating 697 minutes and playing the full 90 minutes against Real Betis, Real Madrid, and Alavés. In the Champions League he has started three of four games, logging 248 minutes.
His absence also impacts the Spanish national team, as manager Luis de la Fuente will be without him for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against the Czech Republic and England.
Midfield alternatives
Flick must now reshuffle his midfield. Pedri remains the primary reference in the centre of the park, while Marc Bernal, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi are options to partner him. Bernal replaced Rodri against Aston Villa and has started three LaLiga matches this season, providing an assist. De Jong, recently returned from injury, played the final 20 minutes against Aston Villa and has also been used in defence. Gavi, who has featured in eight matches across both competitions, offers a high‑intensity profile despite limited minutes recently.
Barcelona's injury list also includes Eric García, Xavi Espart, Dani Olmo, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, and Roony Bardghji. García, Koundé, and Christensen are nearing full fitness and could be available for the Atlético de Madrid match.
