Barcelona's worst fears have come true. MARCA can confirm that Rafinha Alcántara will have to undergo surgery for the serious injury he picked up following Nainggolan's rash tackle on him during Barça's Champions League opener against Roma.

Tests in the early hours of this morning confirmed that Rafinha has damaged the cruciate ligament in his right knee. He will require surgery and several month of rehabilitation. In the best of cases, doctors estimate that he might be back in time for the end of the season.

The Brazilian is a huge loss for Luis Enrique. He has lost a versatile player perfectly capable of playing either up front or in midfield. "It looks like an ugly knee injury", said the Barça boss after the final whistle.