Madrid, Sep 16 (NationPress) Athletic Bilbao has faced a significant challenge just before its much-anticipated Champions League return after 11 years, as reports confirm that midfielder Benat Prados has suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

The club revealed that Prados incurred the injury to his left knee during training last week. The 24-year-old will be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

"Medical assessments conducted by Athletic Club's healthcare team indicate that Benat Prados has sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The surgery date will be announced soon, and we will keep fans updated on his recovery," stated the club.

Having developed through Athletic's youth system, Prados appeared in 45 matches last season and 33 the year before after his loan spell with second-division team Mirandes.

Under coach Ernesto Valverde, Prados was viewed as the third option in central midfield, following Mikel Jauregizar and the often-injured veteran Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta. His absence is set to impact the team significantly as they embark on a season featuring the Champions League, La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.

To fill the gap left by Prados, Valverde will likely rely on seasoned player Mikel Vesga and emerging talent Alejandro Rego.

Athletic Club is set to face Premier League team Arsenal on Tuesday evening in their Champions League debut.

This marks the club's first appearance in the Champions League group stage since the 2014/15 season, with their only other participation occurring in 1998/99.

Last season, the Spanish side excelled in the UEFA Europa League, winning all four of their home matches during the league phase. They also triumphed in their home legs against Roma (3-1) and Rangers (2-0) in the round of 16 and quarter-finals, respectively, before succumbing to a 3-0 defeat against Manchester United at home in the semi-finals' first leg.