Tata Martino has declined to speculate on Victor Valdes’ injury after the goalkeeper was stretchered off in Barcelona’s win over Celta Vigo.
Barca won the game 3-0 but the victory was marred by the injury to the goalkeeper, with sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta describing the result as an ‘expensive three points.’
Early reports from Spain suggest Valdes has injured his cruciate ligament and faces six months on the sidelines.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Martino said he was waiting for an update on Valdes’ condition and lamented Barca’s misfortune throughout the campaign.
“We expect news. We’ve been through a lot this season,” the Coach said.
“I thought everything that could happen had happened already. Obviously I was wrong.
“It’s a heavy blow to Victor. We’ll all try to overcome it. I will say nothing about the injury, just wait for the news.”
Martino added that the rest of the players are shaken by the potentially lengthy absence facing Valdes, and that when Valdes’ replacement, Jose Pinto went down after colliding with the goalpost, he feared the worst.
“The group is hit hard but will continue to fight and overcome this. I don’t want any excuses. We have everything at hand.
“I haven’t seen Victor, nor have I talked to him. When Pinto went down I thought that’s all we were missing.”
Martino was asked if Barca will look to sign another goalkeeper on an emergency deal to account for the loss of Valdes.
“I’d rule out signing another goalkeeper unless we suffer another misfortune,” he replied.
