Man Utd receive Europa League boost as Sergio Busquets is forced off injured for Barcelona against Sevilla
BARCELONA suffered an injury blow ahead of their clash with Manchester United after Sergio Busquets limped off last night.
The LaLiga giants stretched their lead at the top of the table to eight points courtesy of a 3-0 triumph over Sevilla.
Jordi Alba, Gavi and Raphinha found the target – but their victory also came at a cost.
Their legendary midfield talisman Busquets, 34, was forced off just minutes into the clash.
The veteran needed treatment from the medical team on his ankle after a hefty challenge from Sevilla’s Youssef En-Nesyri.
The Spanish World Cup winner attempted to play on, but just moments later he was hobbling to the dug-out as Franck Kessie replaced him.
Now Barcelona boss Xavi will be sweating on the fitness of his captain as they prepare to face in-form United as The Athletic claim he will be sidelined for upton three weeks.
The Catalans have a week before they are next in action against Villarreal in the top-flight.
But that is followed by the visit of United to the Nou Camp for the first-leg of their Europa League play-off on February 16.
They then host Cadiz on Sunday 19 February before heading to Old Trafford four days later to take on Erik ten Hag’s team.
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Busquets has been as influential as ever for Barcelona this term as he chases a ninth LaLiga title with his boyhood club.
He has featured in 18 of their 20 top-flight matches so far this term.
And Xavi will be desperate to call on his skills and experience against the Red Devils.