The Barcelona midfielder will not feature in La Roja's upcoming friendly after hobbling off during the Catalans' 3-1 win over Malaysia on Sunday.

Cesc Fabregas has pulled out of Spain's upcoming friendly with Ecuador after suffering a sprained right ankle.

The Barcelona midfielder hobbled out of action in the 82nd minute of the Catalans' 3-1 win over Malaysia on Saturday, having scored the opener and set up further goals for Neymar and Gerard Pique.

Fabregas was assessed by doctors on Sunday after arriving back in Spain, with Barcelona subsequently confirming that he will not feature for La Roja in their upcoming
clash.

"Cesc Fabregas had a number of tests this morning after arriving back from Malaysia to measure the extent of the ankle injury he picked up in Saturday’s match," a statement on the club's official website read. "It has subsequently been confirmed that the player has sprained a ligament in his right ankle.

"Club doctors have contacted the Spanish FA to recommend that the player should not join the national squad for the friendly against Ecuador so that he can undergo treatment in Barcelona."

The news comes as a blow to new boss Gerardo Martino, a week before the start of the Liga campaign.
Fabregas, who has been the subject of interest from Manchester United throughout the offseason, made 32 league appearances last season, scoring 11 times.

He now faces a race against time to be fit for the season opener, as Barca begins its title defense against Levante next Sunday.