Messi ruled out for three weeks

Lionel Messi has been ruled out of action for three weeks, following an injury that he picked up in FC Barcelona’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid at the Camp Nou last night.

Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi had to be taken off during FC Barcelona’s encounter with Atletico Madrid last night, with the home side losing their one goal lead just seconds after their star man was substitutes.

It has now been confirmed that Messi groin injury will keep him out for three weeks, meaning that the five time Ballon d’Or winner will miss Barça’s upcoming games away to Sporting Gijon and Celta de Vigo in La Liga, and Borussia Monchengladbach, among others.

Sergio Busquets, who put pen to paper on a new five year contract yesterday, also had to be taken off injured last night.

Barça have made several new additions to their squad for this season, after spending around £100 million on six players this summer, so they have cover for Messi and Busquets.

But two players of such world class talents, and who are both so key to the way the Blaugrana plays, will be sorely missed.

It is likely that André Gomes, who replaced Busquets last night, will deputise for the Spanish midfielder.

While Messi will probably be deputised for by Turkish international and former Atletico player Arda Turan, who has shown some impressive form in the early parts of this season.