Barcelona star injured and set to miss both Europa League clashes v Manchester United

Manchester United are currently reeling from an injury blow to Christian Eriksen, with the full extent of the issue yet to be established.

Over in Spain, Manchester United’s upcoming Europa League opponents Barcelona are dealing with an injury blow of their own.

Winger Ousmane Dembele has suffered an injury which will keep him out of both matches against the Red Devils.

The Frenchman sustained a muscle injury 26 minutes into Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Girona on Saturday night.

Spanish newspaper SPORT report Dembele will miss several weeks, including both Europa League matches against Manchester United.

Dembele has been in good form this season, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 18 La Liga matches – but he is now not projected to return until April.

His absence will see former Leeds defender Raphinha step in, who has had a difficult time at Barcelona since joining in the summer.

Dembele has struggled badly with injuries in the past but had been going well for Barcelona this season until now.

United face Barcelona over two legs in mid-late February, with the second taking place at Old Trafford.

Xavi’s side are currently top of the La Liga table, however, they were eliminated from the Champions League in the group stages.

Manchester United were drawn against them in the Europa League, after finishing second in the group to Real Sociedad on goal difference.