BREAKING Footballer loses spleen in horror problem simply 20 seconds into match

A former Barcelona star had to have his spleen removed in emergency surgery after he was the victim of a horror collision just moments into a match.

Iker Fernandez Valderrama was left writhing in agony on the ground after a rival goalkeeper smashed into him near the halfway line. The 23-year-old futsal player managed to get to his feet briefly as he clutched his left side and team-mates interrupted their protests at the goalkeeper’s violent tackle to come to his aid.

After being helped to stay calm and keep breathing as best he could, Valderrama was stretched off the pitch and rushed to hospital, where it was confirmed he had broken three ribs and suffered internal damage that required the removal of his spleen.

The horror collision happened just 20 seconds into the futsal match on Sunday, November 9 between home team Gasifred Atletico Ibiza and Union Africa Ceuti.

The away team’s keeper Mario Gomes, filmed comforting Iker as he realised the damage he had done, received a red card for his challenge outside of the penalty area.

The game ended in a 2-1 victory for Valderrama’s team. But the footballer was still in intensive care this morning at Ibiza’s Can Misses Hospital following his op.

He is expected to be transferred to a normal ward later today as he continues his recovery.

Valderrama, who used to play for Barcelona B’s futsal team, was enjoying his fourth season with his current club after renewing again with them in the summer.

One fan said at the time he agreed to stay on: “An example of a player that gives everything in every game. Congratulations on your renovation. A top futsal player.”

Another added: “Great player. He deserves this contract renewal.”

Valderrama reposted a photo on his Instagram as he recovered in hospital, showing his team-mates holding up selfie pictures of him on their mobile phones as they wished him all the best and dedicating their home win to him.

The sportsman’s club reposted messages of support from other futsal teams on its social media, with one from third division Ibiza side CD San Pablo.

It read: “We send all our strength and support to Gasified player Iker, a companion in this sport. Swift recovery.”

Another from CD Ibiza Futsal said: “We wish you a speedy recovery and send you lots of hugs.”