Wednesday 17 September 2014 18:17, UK
Atletico Madrid have revealed striker Mario Mandzukic is to undergo surgery on a broken nose suffered during the Champions League defeat to Olympiacos.
Mandzukic, who joined the Spanish champions from Bayern Munich on a four-year deal over the summer, suffered the injury early on following an elbow in the face from Pajtim Kasami at Karaiskakis Stadium, but managed to play the entire match.
Despite his injury, the 28-year-old Croatian international managed to get on the scoresheet as Atletico were beaten 3-2 in their Group A opener and was a constant menace to Olympiacos' backline throughout.
Yet the extent of the damage has been revealed on Wednesday, with Mandzukic set to have an operation on Thursday although it is not yet known whether he will miss any games.
"Tests on Wednesday show Croatian Mario Mandzukic suffered a broken nose. He will undergo surgery on Thursday 18, at 9pm in the FREMAP Majadahonda clinic," said a statement on Atletico's website.
Atletico are next in action on Saturday against Celta Vigo in the Primera Division and it is highly unlikely he will be available 48 hours after having surgery, while he will also be doubtful for the midweek clash with Almeria.
A more likely scenario will see Mandzukic return at home to Sevilla or Atletico's second Champions League group game against Juventus wearing a face mask to protect his nose.