The news could also hinder Los Culés' chances of adding new players to the team's roster during the current transfer window.

Barcelona's season has been filled with injury setbacks to some of their most relevant players, and this time, this new injury will have an effect on the team's plans for the transfer window and for Xavi's preparations for this week's Copa del Rey clash.

Earlier today, the club has issued a statement regarding the health of one of the players who was set to play Thursday's match against Athletic Club. The man in question is none other than Samuel Umtiti, who broke a bone on his right foot and could spend the next eight to twelve weeks out. The Frenchman is set to undergo a surgery to correct the problem in the next couple of days.

Umtiti's untimely injury will create a serious problem for Barcelona on and off the pitch. Firstly, the player's absence will create a selection problem for Xavi, who will need to improvise at center back due to Eric García's injury, Clement Lenglet's low form, and Gerard Piqué being forced to play every single game. 

Added to that, Umtiti was one of the players that were set to leave the club during the ongoing transfer window or during the summer, and this new injury could lower the amount of money Barcelona may ask for if any team wants to hire him, which will hinder their already depleted finances.

The Frenchman had recently made headlines after securing a contract extension with the club and had his wage renegotiated to help the team's financial situation. This move allowed Los Culés to add new signing Ferrán Torres to their squad.