MADRID, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Barcelona midfielder Rodri will miss Sunday's La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid after suffering a right hamstring injury during Tuesday's 3-0 Champions League victory over Aston Villa, the club confirmed Wednesday.
Rodri was substituted at halftime after experiencing muscle discomfort, with Barcelona coach Hansi Flick acknowledging the problem after the match.
"He noticed a problem in the muscle, and we will have to wait until tomorrow," Flick said.
Medical tests Wednesday confirmed a minor injury to Rodri's right hamstring, Barcelona said in a statement.
The club confirmed that the midfielder would miss Sunday's trip to Atletico Madrid but did not provide a timetable for his return, saying his recovery would depend on how the injury develops.
The setback also casts doubt on Rodri's availability for Spain's upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against the Czech Republic and England.
Luis de la Fuente's side visits the Czech Republic on November 12 before hosting England at Atletico's Metropolitano Stadium three days later, with Spain aiming to secure top spot in its Nations League group.
Rodri has established himself as a key player for Barcelona since joining from Manchester City in the summer, starting 11 of the club's 14 matches this season.
The midfielder also played a pivotal role in Spain's World Cup triumph in July, earning player of the match honors in the 1-0 final victory over Argentina.
His absence comes at a crucial time for Barcelona, which travels to Atletico seeking to preserve its lead at the top of La Liga. ■