Spanish footballer Carles Perez has been hospitalised in Thessaloniki after suffering a painful dog bite to his genitals while walking his pet in a park.
The former Barcelona winger, now on loan at Greek side Aris Thessaloniki from Celta Vigo, was reportedly trying to break up a fight between his own dog and another when the incident occurred.
Local reports say the 27-year-old required six stitches following the injury and remains under medical observation.
The incident happened just days after Perez made his debut for Aris in a Europa Conference League qualifier, playing the full match against Araz-Nakhchivan.
He had joined the Greek outfit this summer in a bid to reignite his career following a frustrating spell with Celta.
Although the injury is not believed to be life-threatening, surgery is said to be under consideration and his return to action has been postponed indefinitely.
A product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, Perez made 13 senior appearances for the Catalan giants before moving to AS Roma in 2020.
He later joined Celta Vigo permanently after a loan spell, but spent last season at Getafe, scoring three goals in 30 appearances across all competitions.
His move to Aris was seen as a fresh start after falling out of favour in Vigo.
The Greek club has confirmed his hospitalisation and said further updates on his recovery will follow.
Perez, who played 18 times for Spain at youth level, is now recovering at home.