The Argentine midfielder injured his left foot in a league game against Real Zaragoza on Sunday and is set to be out of action for three months.

Doctor Antoni Dalmau said: "The operation went well. There were no complications.

"For the bone to set properly, he will need three months."

Messi's injury is a further blow to Barcelona's hopes of retaining the Spanish league title and the Champions League trophy with striker Samuel Eto'o also out for five months with a bad knee injury.

Brazilian midfielder Edmilson was also injured in the game twisting an ankle and he will be out for around 10 days, while Argentinian international forward Javier Saviola has been ruled out for up to six weeks after injuring his left thigh scoring the final goal in Sunday's 3-1 win.