Barça right-back Dani Alves could miss up to one month

Barça right-back Dani Alves could miss up to one month

Dani Alves could be out for one month after he was forced off injured in Barcelona's 1-0 win against Athletic Club at San Mames on Sunday evening. 

Luis Enrique suggested after the game that the injury didn't "look too serious" but early indications are that the right-back will be out for up to one month with a groin problem. 

If medical tests on Monday prove that to be true, Alves would probably miss four league games and the start of the Champions League. 

The Brazilian, with just 15 minutes on the clock, delayed a pass and was tackled by Aritz Aduriz, knocking him to the floor in the process. 

Barça's medical team came on and Alves tried to continue despite clearly being in a lot of pain, but he could not. 

In his place came on Sergi Roberto and the midfielder, who played as a right-back in pre-season, produced an impressive display. 

He got up and down the flank and created a chance for Luis Suarez which was saved by Gorka Iraizoz. 

If Alves is ruled out for any length of time, Roberto could continue to deputise in next week's first league game At Camp Nou against Malaga. 

It should also be remembered that Aleix Vidal, signed from Sevilla, cannot play until January due to FIFA's ban on registering players.