Barcelona Faces Defensive Crisis After Cancelo's Serious Injury

Barcelona announced today, Friday, that defender Joao Cancelo will be sidelined for a period due to a knee injury sustained during the victory over Las Palmas in La Liga. Cancelo (29 years old) started in the 2-1 win against Las Palmas yesterday, Thursday, but had to leave the pitch after just 11 minutes. Barcelona stated, "The tests conducted today, Friday, confirmed that Joao Cancelo, a first-team player, suffered a strain in the lateral ligament of the left knee. He is not available for selection, and his recovery will determine his return." Barcelona currently occupies third place in the Spanish league with 41 points, seven points behind league leaders Real Madrid and second-placed Girona.