The France international underwent surgery to remove a tumour on his liver in March last year but returned to the first team and had the honour of lifting the Champions League trophy at Wembley in May.
However, Barcelona have now said that Abidal will be forced to have a transplant - a course of action that has been under consideration for 12 months.
A club statement read: "Given the development of his medical condition, Abidal will undergo a liver transplant in the following weeks.
A club statement read: "Given the development of his medical condition, Abidal will undergo a liver transplant in the following weeks.
"The transplant is an option that has been considered since the beginning of his treatment, one year ago.
"At the express wish of the player, the club request the utmost respect for the right to privacy and confidentiality."
Abidal has started 32 games in all competitions for Barcelona this season.
The club did not say how long the 32-year-old would be out of action but his chances of returning before the end of the season and representing France at Euro 2012 starting in June must be in serious doubt.
Abidal is likely to be replaced in Barcelona's line-up by Adriano and captain Carles Puyol is also able to fill in at left back.
The club did not say how long the 32-year-old would be out of action but his chances of returning before the end of the season and representing France at Euro 2012 starting in June must be in serious doubt.
Abidal is likely to be replaced in Barcelona's line-up by Adriano and captain Carles Puyol is also able to fill in at left back.
No comments:
Post a Comment