Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez will miss the rest of the season after injuring his left knee in the goalless Champions League semi-final, first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday, the Primera Liga club said.

GettyImagesInjured Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez is carted off the pitch

Marquez stumbled and went down clutching his left knee just after halftime at the Nou Camp and has damaged the external meniscus.

Coach Pep Guardiola has limited options in central defence for the return leg after Carles Puyol, who came on to replace Mexico international Marquez, was booked and will miss the match in London on May 6 through suspension.

Marquez will also miss Saturday's Primera Liga 'clasico' when leaders Barca face champions Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.