Barcelona have revealed that Ronald Araujo suffered "a left adductor injury" during Sunday evening's 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in El Clasico.
The Uruguay international played the full 90 minutes of the La Liga contest at Camp Nou, but it emerged after the match that he had suffered an issue during the latter stages of the contest.
Araujo was seen with an ice pack on his thigh later in the evening, fuelling suggestions that the defender had picked up an injury during the clash.
The 24-year-old underwent tests on Monday morning, and it has been confirmed that he suffered "a left adductor injury" during the vital win over Real Madrid.
Barcelona have not put a timeframe on Araujo's absence, although various reports have suggested that he is likely to be unavailable for selection for at least the next two weeks, potentially returning for the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final with Real Madrid on April 5.
© Reuters
"Tests carried out this morning have revealed that Ronald Araujo has a left adductor injury. He is out and his recovery will determine his availability," read an official club statement.
The South American has been a vital player for Barcelona since returning from the injury that kept him on the sidelines in the early months of the campaign, featuring on 22 occasions in all competitions.
Araujo's own goal on Sunday night actually saw Real Madrid take an early lead at Camp Nou, but Sergi Roberto levelled the scores late in the first period before Franck Kessie won it for the hosts late on.
Xavi's side are now 12 points clear of second-placed Real Madrid at the top of the table, putting them in a commanding position to win this season's title.
© Reuters
"As a manager, I am more nervous for El Clasico than I was as a player," Barcelona boss Xavi told reporters after the victory on Sunday night.
"Madrid knew how to play out of our press. The offside goal they scored came from our mistake, but I think that we were superior in general.
"Today is one of the best days as Barca coach. I had goosebumps, especially when Kessie scored. I'm very happy for the players. We don't feel like champions, but this is a very important step for us. The script has been perfect.
"In this team, everyone runs, everyone works. It's something to be proud of. We have won many points, which means the team is working well.
"We were better than Real Madrid. The result is fair. The only thing that was unfair was their 0-1 lead. Don't forget where we come from. Last year, it was us who were 12 points behind."
Barcelona will now not be back in action until April 1 against La Liga's basement side Elche, meaning that Araujo could miss just one game for the Catalan outfit, with the injury occurring ahead of the international break.
