Barcelona have confirmed on their official website that Nelson Semedo has picked up a calf injury during their 4-1 win over Celta Vigo on Saturday. It is believed that the Portuguese defensive ace will out of action for around five weeks (via fcbarcelona.com) which will be a bitter pill to swallow for anyone associated with the Catalan club.
Ernesto Valverde named the former Benfica prospect in his first XI for the visit of Celta to the Nou Camp. However, Semedo could only play 23 minutes on the field before he had to be substituted for picking up a calf problem.
Semedo’s Impressive Form At The Nou Camp This Season
The 25-year-old has been a regular feature of the Barca senior team and has already put in a few eye-catching displays during this campaign. He has featured in 16 matches for Valverde’s team and has three assists to his name across all competitions. What makes Semedo such a useful member of the Barca squad is his versatility to operate in both full-back positions.
Furthermore, the Portuguese talent has been defensively resolute, having made an average of 3.5 tackles, 1.8 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per match in the UEFA Champions League this season (stats via whoscored). The Lisboa-born full-back has also earned 14 international caps for the Portuguese national team thus far.
What Are The Portuguese International’s Best Attributes?
Semedo is blessed with blistering pace and can make some lung-bursting dribbles down the wide areas. He excels at running with the ball and doesn’t mind interchanging passes with others around him. The Portuguese full-back is also a reliable presence in defence as he can make some vital interceptions for his side.
Semedo Suffers A Calf Injury: Big Blow For Barca?
Losing Semedo for five weeks will undoubtedly be a massive blow for Valverde and his side’s chances of keeping things stable at the back after the international break. Barca would now have to rely upon Sergi Roberto or Sergio Busquets to fill in at right-back even though both players are primarily central midfielders. Another option for Valverde could be to promote Moussa Wagué to his first-team, but the Senegalese youngster could be too inexperienced to play at the highest level.
The upcoming international break will come as a welcome distraction for the Catalans as it will soften the blow of losing Semedo to injury. Even then, Valverde will have to figure out a way to deal with the Portuguese defender’s absence in the coming weeks.
