Barcelona's Spanish Super Cup victory over Real Madrid on Sunday was marred by one injury to center back Inigo Martinez.
The 33-year-old played an outstanding role last season under Xavi, but has established himself as one of Hansi Flick's leaders after failing to start just one of Barcelona's 28 games in all competitions this season. .
Unfortunately, his exit inside Sunday's 5-2 win over Madrid it lasted less than 30 minutes before he was pulled off with a thigh injury that quickly forced him off the field. However, Martinez refused treatment until half-time as he wanted to support his teammates from the bench.
When he was finally checked out by the medical staff, neither state Martinez was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia.
Formal tests will be carried out on Monday, but Martinez is expected to be sidelined for at least the next five weeks.
Depending on the severity of Martinez's injury, Barcelona could block a January exit for Ronald Araujo, who is object of interest from Arsenal and Juventusto ensure they don't go easy on the rear.
Araujo is likely to be Martinez's direct replacement alongside teenager Pau Cubarsi. Denmark international Andreas Christensen is slowly working his way back from a significant injury, while Eric Garcia could be sold amid strong links to Girona.