Real Madrid defender Joan Martinez is facing an extended spell on the sidelines after rupturing the cruciate ligament in his left knee.
The 16-year-old centre-back sustained the injury during a training session with Real Madrid’s first team.
In the next few days, he will undergo surgery on the issue with it still be determined how long he will be out of action for.
The player had been a popular player during Real Madrid’s pre-season tour of the United States, where he played two matches against AC Milan and FC Barcelona.
He was expected to get more opportunities in the first team this season after the departure of Nacho Fernandez and the failure to sign defender Leny Yoro.
Real Madrid face last season’s Europa League winners Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup in Poland on August 14.
They then begin their defence of their LA Liga title against Mallorca on August 18.
(Pedro Castillo/Real Madrid via Getty Images)
