Azpilicueta suffers muscle injury, out until international break

Atletico Madrid defender Cesar Azpilicueta will miss the next four games against Celta Vigo, Real Madrid, Benfica and Real Sociedad because of a left leg muscle injury suffered in Sunday's match against Rayo Vallecano.

"Azpilicueta has suffered a muscle injury in his left leg, according to the tests the Spanish player has undergone," the club said on their official channels on Monday, without specifying the player's period of absence.

This type of injury requires around three weeks' recovery, depending on the extent of the muscle tear and the player's progress. He would at least miss the four games before the next international break and be ready for the return leg against Leganes on 20 October.

"The defender will undergo physiotherapy sessions and rehabilitation work in the gym and the evolution of his injury will determine his return to competition," said Atletico's medical statement. Azpilicueta has played in five of his team's seven games this season, all five from the starting eleven.