Ernesto Valverde faces injury headache ahead of Copa del Rey final

Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde has confirmed that he faces a growing injury list ahead of next weekend's Copa del Rey final against Valencia.

Speaking after La Blaugrana's La Liga final day 2-2 draw at Eibar, Valverde confirmed that defender Nelson Semedo was taken to hospital at half time due to an injury.

"Semedo was take to hospital during the game, but we are hopeful it is only a minor problem and he can return tomorrow.

"We think that Ter Stegen will be fit for the final, after the initial diagnosis was reassessed.

"With Coutinho, I do not know yet, but we allowed him an additional rest today.

"Dembele and Arthur are more difficult to make a decision on right now, particularly as Arthur has been carrying an injury for months."

One player who is certain to miss out is striker Luis Suarez, after undergoing minor knee surgery last week, although he is aiming to be back fit in time to represent Uruguay at the Copa America in June.

Samuel Umtiti is back fit to provide cover for Clement Lenglet and Gerard Pique, while Sergi Roberto can fill in for Semedo and Arturo Vidal for Arthur, in midfield.

However the potential absence of Coutinho, Suarez and Dembele for the final would leave Valverde light on attacking options -with Lionel Messi potentially partnered with Malcom and La Masia graduate Abel Ruiz.

Tags Ernesto Valverde FC Barcelona Valencia CF
La Liga - Club News