Barcelona’s Spanish Super Cup victory over Real Madrid on Sunday was soured by an injury to centre-back Inigo Martinez.

The 33-year-old played a fringe role last season under Xavi but has firmly established himself as one of Hansi Flick’s leaders, having only failed to start one of Barcelona’s 28 games across all competitions this season.

Unfortunately, his outing in Sunday’s 5-2 win over Madrid lasted less than 30 minutes before he pulled up with a hamstring injury which quickly forced him off the field. Martinez did, however, refuse treatment until half-time as he wanted to support his teammates from the bench.

When he was eventually checked over by medical staff, AS state Martinez was diagnosed with a hamstring tear.

Formal checks will be conducted on Monday but Martinez is expected to be sidelined for at least the next five weeks.

Depending on the severity of Martinez’s injury, Barcelona could block a January departure for Ronald Araujo, who is the subject of interest from both Arsenal and Juventus, to ensure they are not left light at the back.

Araujo would likely be the direct replacement for Martinez alongside teenager Pau Cubarsi. Denmark international Andreas Christensen is slowly working his way back from a significant injury, while Eric Garcia could be sold amid strong links to Girona.

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