Barcelona goalkeeper and captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen had successful knee surgery on Monday after suffering a ruptured patella tendon during Sunday’s La Liga victory against Villarreal.
The Germany international was carried off on a stretcher during the first half after his right knee buckled as he landed while catching the ball.
No timescale has yet been put on the 32-year-old’s recovery but it has been reported in Spanish media that Ter Stegen could miss at least seven months.
“The player is unavailable for selection and his recovery will dictate his return,” the club said.
Ter Stegen has made more than 400 appearances for the club since joining from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2014.
Hansi Flick’s side beat Villarreal 5-1 to maintain their 100% record in La Liga and move four points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table.