Barcelona have been dealt a blow just as they near the finish line. Forward Ferran Torres will miss the rest of the season after undergoing emergency surgery for appendicitis.
The club confirmed the operation was successful, but the timing couldn’t have been worse. The 25-year-old had just played a key role in Barca’s win over Real Madrid, picking up three assists in El Clasico.
That win brought the team within touching distance of another La Liga crown. But now, Torres will be on the sidelines for the final lap of the title race.
“Ferran Torres underwent surgery for appendicitis and is recovering well,” Barcelona announced on Wednesday.
With just three league games remaining — against Espanyol, Villarreal, and Athletic Club — Torres will watch from the stands as his teammates look to seal the title.
Barca can clinch the trophy as early as Thursday night in the city derby. But they’ll have to do it without their versatile attacker.
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Will Ferran Torres UEFA National League games for Spain?
While Torres is out for the rest of the domestic season, all hope isn’t lost for international action.
Reports (via SPORT) suggest he could still make Spain’s squad for the UEFA Nations League next month. Coach Luis de la Fuente is said to be keeping tabs on his recovery.
Spain face France in the semifinal on June 5. The final will be held just three days later. That gives Torres just enough time to make a surprise return — if his recovery goes smoothly.
De la Fuente has worked with Torres before and values his flexibility in attack. With 21 goals in 48 caps, the numbers speak for themselves.
And if fitness allows, the former Manchester City man could still find himself back in the mix.
For now, though, Torres’ club season ends early. One appendix later, and Barcelona’s “Plan B” in attack will be out of action just when the party starts.
