Barcelona face defensive injury worries before PSG and Real Madrid clashes
Barcelona are concerned about the fitness of Eric Garcia, Gerard Martin, and Jules Kounde after their 5-2 win over Real Betis. Martin was substituted at half-time, Eric Garcia picked up a possible muscle injury late on, and Flick confirmed Kounde also has a minor issue. The injuries could leave Barcelona short in defense for upcoming matches against PSG in the Champions League and Real Madrid in La Liga.
Barcelona’s 5-2 victory over Real Betis came with fresh fitness worries. Gerard Martin took a first-half knock and stayed until the interval before being replaced. Eric Garcia entered as a substitute but appeared to hurt a muscle late on, forcing Barcelona to end with ten players.
Hansi Flick said Kounde and Martin have minor problems and that Eric’s situation is unclear, with test results awaited before Tuesday. Andreas Christensen is already injured, while Frenkie de Jong is available and has trained in defence, offering a possible emergency option for PSG and Real Madrid.
Barcelona supporters and neutral viewers could feel added uncertainty around two high-profile fixtures, as defensive absences may alter tactics and expectations. The situation may also intensify media and social-media discussion, affecting how players and coaches are judged. For PSG and Real Madrid, any Barcelona weakness could be seen as an opportunity, though injuries do not guarantee outcomes. More broadly, such stories can shape fan engagement and the commercial attention surrounding major matches, while reminding audiences how quickly fitness concerns can overshadow a convincing win.