Lewandowski: Barcelona Striker Suffers Injury, Could Miss El Clasico vs Real Madrid

• Robert Lewandowski has joined Barclona's long list of injuries
• The striker was subbed off before halftime in their Champions League clash with Porto
• The 35-year-old could miss the first El Clasico of the season

La Liga leaders, Barcelona, have been dealt with another injury blow. First-choice striker Robert Lewandowski has been diagnosed with a left ankle sprain sustained in their Champions League clash against Porto.

The veteran striker is now at risk of missing the first El Clasico of the 2023/24 season later this month.

Barcelona announced the news but didn't provide a timeline for his return. The former Bayern Munich striker was replaced in the 34th minute in their hard-fought 1-0 win against the Portuguese giants.

The 35-year-old joins Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Raphinha on the sidelines, per Transfermarkt. Reports in Spain indicate that he could miss up to four weeks, meaning he won't play in the El Clasico on October 28.

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Lewandowski has started well this season, scoring six goals and providing four assists in 10 appearances.

Barcelona injury crisis

Midfielder Pedri has been recovering from a quadriceps injury since mid-August, and it is unclear when the youngster will return to action.

Another key midfielder, De Jong, sustained a right ankle injury late last month and could also miss the showdown with Real Madrid.

Right winger Raphinha will need a few weeks to recover from a hamstring injury incurred a week ago in La Liga against Sevilla.

Xavi Herenandez's side are second in La Liga with 20 points, one behind bitter rivals Real Madrid. If both sides win all their games before they meet, the El Clasico showdown could signal the potential winner of the league.

Lewandowski reacts to SPL links

Sports Brief also reported on Lewandowski responding to rumours linking him with the Saudi Pro League.

The Polish international commented on his happiness at Barcelona and said he had not thought of switching to the Middle Eastern country.

Lewandowski, who has begun to regain his goal-scoring form, won the Pichichi Trophy last season by scoring 23 goals for the Catalans.