Sergio Aguero diagnosed with heart issue and stays in hospital after difficulty breathing

Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero was forced off during their 1-1 draw against Alaves with breathing difficulties, and reports in Spain claim he has since been diagnosed with a heart problem

Sergio Aguero has reportedly been diagnosed with a heart problem after breathing difficulties forced him off during Barcelona's 1-1 draw with Alaves on Saturday night.

Aguero, 33, was replaced in the first half by Philippe Coutinho when he collapsed to the turf in clear discomfort four minutes before half-time.

Barca medics initially rushed onto the field with a stretcher at the Nou Camp, but after receiving treatment the Argentine was fortunately able to return to his feet and walk off.

Aguero, who interim Barca manager Sergi Barjuan said felt "a little dizzy" when substituted, was subsequently taken to hospital to undergo a series of examinations.

And according to Spanish publication Sport, initial tests revealed he is suffering from arrhythmia - whereby the heart beats with an irregular rhythm.

Marca now claim the ex-Manchester City star will remain under the supervision of medical professionals in hospital for at least another two days to undergo further cardiology tests.

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Barca are not prepared to take any risks with his problem, meaning he will only return to training when it is deemed safe to do so.

The Catalans will also publish a statement with the results of his heart tests when they are released.

Barjuan, who is serving as Barca's interim manager following the sacking of Ronald Koeman earlier this week, explained Aguero's substitution in his post-match interview.

"I asked [Aguero] and he told me he was dizzy," he said. "I was told he went to the hospital. I don’t know anything else."

Aguero was making only his fifth appearance for Barca since joining on a free transfer from City in the summer, having missed the start of the season with a calf injury.

Barca's miserable start to the 2021/22 campaign continued after he was replaced against Alaves, despite Memphis Depay breaking the deadlock four minutes into the second half.

It only took Alaves three minutes to draw level, with Luis Rioja slotting the ball past Marc-Andre Ter Stegen and in turn earning the visitors a well-earned point.

Barca find themselves languishing down in ninth place, eight points adrift of La Liga leaders and arch-rivals Real Madrid.