Barcelona midfield mainstay suffers hamstring injury in Aston Villa win; doubtful for Atletico Madrid clash

Barcelona midfield mainstay suffers hamstring injury in Aston Villa win; doubtful for Atletico Madrid clash Barcelona are monitoring Rodri’s fitness after the midfielder experienced discomfort in his right hamstring during 3-0 Champions League victory over Aston Villa .  According to Mundo Deportivo , the 30-year-old asked to be substituted after feeling pain toward the end of the first half, prompting Hansi Flick and the club’s medical staff to leave him out of the second half. The incident comes at an important moment for Barcelona, who face Atletico Madrid in LaLiga on Sunday, November 8.  Rodri’s availability will depend on the outcome of his medical assessment, with the Catalans reluctant to risk aggravating the problem. Rodri to undergo medical tests after Aston Villa substitution Rodri reportedly experienced discomfort in his right hamstring during the closing stages of the opening half against Aston Villa and reports state that he is doubful for weekend’s clash against Atletico.  He managed to complete the first 45 minutes before informing Flick and the first-team doctors about the problem. Following their discussion at half-time, all parties agreed that continuing would be an unnecessary risk.  Marc Bernal eventually replaced the midfielder, taking up the holding midfield position alongside Pedri. The academy graduate delivered a positive performance after the interval, helping Barcelona maintain their defensive structure and contain Aston Villa’s attacking threats. As per the outlet, Rodri is now scheduled to undergo medical tests on Wednesday during the club’s post-match recovery session.  The assessment will establish whether he has sustained an injury and whether his participation against Atletico Madrid is in danger.  Flick’s reliance on Rodri raises workload concerns The aforementioned incident also renews questions about Rodri’s playing time under Flick.  Rodri was taken off at half-time. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Since signing from Barcelona and completing his registration, he has accumulated 945 minutes across 14 appearances this season, making him one of Barcelona’s most frequently used players. Despite his importance, however, his workload attracted attention during Saturday’s 6-1 victory over Alaves.  Despite Barcelona establishing a 4-0 advantage before half-time, Flick substituted Pedri after 45 minutes and also gave Raphinha and Lamine Yamal periods of rest.  Rodri, meanwhile, completed the entire match. Rodri’s potential absence would create a significant selection decision for Flick ahead of Sunday’s encounter, as Atletico are a demanding opponent and Barcelona would ideally want their regular midfield structure available. Bernal’s performance against Aston Villa provides a natural alternative in the holding midfield position, although replacing Rodri’s experience and positional influence would still be difficult.