Barcelona midfielder Nico Gonzalez, who is currently on loan at Valencia, has endured a difficult start to 2023, having picked up an injury during the recent game against Villarreal.
After being stomped on the foot by Raul Albiol, the youngster has picked up a metatarsal injury in his left foot. He had to be subsequently replaced in the 80th minute, and after initial diagnosis, it appears the midfielder could be out for a significant period, reports Mundo Deportivo.
Valencia had confirmed the injury shortly after the game. As things stand, Nico may have to settle for a period of at least two months on the sidelines, which could see him miss out on important matches, particularly in cup competitions.
Nico will indeed miss the upcoming Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Real Madrid in Saudi Arabia. He will also miss the Copa Del Rey opener against La Nucia, along with three league games against Cadiz, Almeria, and Real Valladolid.
Nico’s absence will be a blow for Valencia coach Gennaro Gattuso. The youngster was far from a regular starter at Valencia this season, but his ability to provide support in central midfield and in defensive midfield had made him a handy asset for the Italian coach.
The Barcelona starlet had racked up 13 league appearances for Los Che so far, starting in six of them. But the recent injury will surely derail his progress while leaving Gattuso devoid of any reliable alternative for Hugo Guillamon in the defensive midfield position.
It will not come as a surprise to see Valencia signing a short-term replacement in the market during the January transfer window. As for Barcelona, they will be hugely disappointed with Nico’s injury and will be monitoring his recovery closely over the coming months.