Valverde gives Umtiti update and explains Iniesta substitution against Celta

Ernesto Valverde has given a brief update on Samuel Umtiti’s injury and says he fears the defender tore his hamstring against Celta Vigo on Saturday.

The Frenchman pulled up while running back and hobbled off to be replaced with Thomas Vermaelen.

It didn’t look great and reports in Spain are claiming he could be out for two months, which would be a huge blow.

Valverde says Umtiti will undergo further tests and we will have to wait and see how severe the problem is.

"I've not spoken with Sam yet,” he said.

"There will be tests [on Sunday] and then we will get confirmation of how long he's out for. We think it's a hamstring tear, but let's wait.

“I don't know how long. It will be more than one week for sure, but I'm not a doctor. Let's wait and see what the tests say."

Source | ESPN FC

Valverde also explained the decision to replace Andres Iniesta shortly after half-time, which looked an odd one, with Denis Suarez coming on to take his place.

“He asked for the change,” said Valverde.

“We don’t know if it is a significant injury or not because he then continued to play on for a little while longer.”

It was a disappointing result for Barca, not least because Luis Suarez had a goal chalked off for offside which looked another poor decision.

However, the injury to Umtiti is a real blow, let’s hope he’s not out for too long. Keep your fingers crossed!