Real Betis defender Aissa Mandi sought out Ansu Fati immediately after defeat on Saturday to Barcelona.

Mandi saw red during the loss, but it was his tackle on Fati which left him most upset. The winger underwent surgery yesterday on a damaged knee which is likely to keep him sidelined for four months.

Famed knee surgeon Dr Ramon Cugat conducted the operation on Fati's knee on Monday. Barcelona's communications department have announced expectations that Fati will be out of action for "approximately four months".

Cadena SER via Mundo Deportivo reports despite keeping his own counsel, Mandi reached out to Fati soon after the game.

The defender made contact before Fati went under the knife, though didn't wish to publicise his approach. He sought out Barca's comms staff and requested Fati's contact number.

Mandi wanted to learn about his situation, send him encouragement and wish him a speedy recovery. It's unclear how Fati responded.

- updated November 11