[Sports] Lionel Messi Injured

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Lionel Messi Injured and Out
from Bleacher Report

Barcelona's chances of defending their La Liga crown suffered a major blow during Saturday's victory over Las Palmas, as four-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi tore the internal collateral ligament of his left knee.

He won't need an operation, but isn't expected to return until mid-November.

The Argentina international was enjoying another fine start to the 2015-16 campaign, scoring three goals in four La Liga starts. Teaming up with forwards Suarez and Neymar, Messi forms part of arguably the strongest group of attackers in the world.

But unlike previous years, Barcelona's depth behind those three is limited. Super-sub Pedro was sold to Chelsea during the summer, and Arda Turan is unable to be registered until January. Rafinha also suffered a devastating injury earlier this season, leaving manager Luis Enrique with the young and unproven Munir and Sandro Ramirez.

Both are supremely gifted, but no one can adequately replace a player like Messi, who will hope his team can stay in title contention until his return.