The striker was stretchered off with a fractured tibia in Barcelona's 4-0 semi-final win over Qatari side Al Sadd on Thursday and has returned to Spain to undergo surgery.

Pedro admitted news of the extent of Villa's injury had shocked the squad but believes they have the mental strength to overcome the setback and to pick up their first silverware of the season.

"The news (about Villa's injury) shocked the whole team. We saw him after the meeting, and he was optimistic. With the support of the team he will recover soon," Pedro told Marca.

"Villa is looking forward to being in the Champions League final in Munich. For us this is an extra motivation, because he was excited to be in the Club World Cup final as it was his first participation."

Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque was equally disappointed, describing Villa's misfortune as a 'significant loss' but 'hopefully a temporary one' ahead of the Euro 2012 finals next year.

With Villa's absence, Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has a few headaches with his ready-made replacement Alexis Sanchez no certainty, while rested captain Carlos Puyol should return in the heart of defence in place of Javier Mascherano, who picked up a knock.

Despite his brace in the semi-final, Adriano will most likely make way at right-back for Dani Alves while Xavi should return in midfield for Thiago Alcantara.

Copa Libertadores champions Santos, fresh from their 3-1 semi-final win over Kashiwa Reysol, will welcome back Leo who missed out through injury.

Durval is expected to return to shore up a leaky defence just in time to face the Champions League and La Liga champions.

Ganso and Elano will look to build attacks from the middle of the park while Arouca and Henrique will look to press Barcelona hard and cover the defensive line.