Atletico Madrid have confirmed defender Sime Vrsaljko has returned to the club from Inter and will miss ‘a long time’ due to a knee injury.
The Croatian international joined the Nerazzuri from Atleti on a €6.5m loan for the season with a €17.5m option to but he was limited to just 13 appearances this season due to injury.
“Sime Vrsaljko on Wednesday underwent surgery on his left knee that will have him out of the field for a long time,” read an Atleti statement.
“Dr. Villalon, representing the medical services of the club, has been present at the operation to which the defender underwent in Belgium.
“The player will now begin his recovery under the supervision of our medical services.
“From Atletico Madrid we want to send all our support to the Croatian player in his recovery and wish him to return to the playing fields as soon as possible.”
The Milanese giants have since replaced him with fellow right-back Cedric Soares, who signed from Southampton.
Vrsaljko may find a role at Atleti due to the uncertain future of Juanfran Torres and the permanent sale of Jonny Otto to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
