Barcelona loanee Marc Casado was forced off during Deportivo's meeting with Real Betis after suffering what appeared to be a serious shoulder injury, raising immediate concerns over the midfielder's availability.
Casado was introduced from the start by Antonio Hidalgo but lasted only around the 33rd minute.
The 23-year-old midfielder fell awkwardly following a collision with Real Betis midfielder Marc Roca and immediately signalled that something was wrong.
The midfielder pointed towards his right shoulder before receiving treatment on the touchline. He was eventually replaced by Diego Villares as Deportivo waited for a clearer assessment of the injury.
The first signs were particularly worrying, as Casado could be heard telling Deportivo's medical staff: "It's broken, it's broken,"as he approached the sideline (h/t SPORT ).
The Barcelona loanee appeared to be referring to his collarbone. He was visibly uncomfortable after the collision and almost immediately asked to be taken off.
For what it is worth, that reaction does not confirm the nature or severity of the injury, although Casado will need to undergo medical examinations before Deportivo can determine whether there is a fracture and how long he could be unavailable.
Casado had returned to Hidalgo's starting XI after being rotated for Deportivo's previous league fixture.
His loan spell had already given him a chance to rebuild momentum, having made his debut in the dramatic victory at La Ceramica against Villarreal before earning his first start in the draw against Getafe .
Hidalgo was unable to offer much encouragement when asked about the injury after the match.
Casado was forced off in the first half. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
"It doesn't look too good, to be honest,"he admitted, increasing the concern around Casado, although the exact diagnosis remains unknown until the medical tests are completed.
The immediate priority is establishing whether Casado has suffered the collarbone fracture he feared during the match.
Deportivo managed to recover from falling behind and secured a point at Riazor, leaving them seventh heading into the international break.
But the result was overshadowed by Casado's injury, and the medical assessment will determine whether the midfielder faces a short absence or a significantly longer spell on the sidelines, with Barcelona also waiting for clarity on the condition of their loanee.
