Barcelona has been hit with a major blow ahead of the Celta Vigo clash as one of their key stars faces a race against time to be fit.
Manager Hansi Flick, who has already been navigating a complicated injury crisis throughout the squad, is entering the Celta Vigo clash with more questions than answers about the defensive lineup.
The fatigue and overuse issues plaguing his mainstays have raised concerns about whether the team will be able to field a fully fit backline for this crucial encounter.
With fixtures coming thick and fast, any absence could prove decisive as Barcelona looks to keep pace at the top of the table.
The spotlight now falls on Jules Kounde, one of Barcelona’s standout defenders this season, who has emerged as a major doubt for the match against Celta Vigo, as reported by Diario Sport.
Having featured in nine consecutive matches and completed the full 90 minutes in eight, Kounde’s workload is beginning to show, with noticeable signs of fatigue setting in.
He recently skipped group training, suggesting that the coaching staff may finally be ready to give him a well-deserved rest.
Kounde’s situation is further complicated by the lack of fully fit alternatives—Eric Garcia is still managing discomfort after suffering a nasal fracture and requires a protective mask, while up-and-coming La Masia talent Xavi Espart is viewed as an emergency option rather than a certain starter.
Flick’s limited resources mean Barcelona’s defense could be uncharacteristically vulnerable against Celta Vigo, with the final decision on Kounde’s participation hinging on whether Garcia proves fit enough to start.
Should both miss out, the responsibility could fall to an inexperienced academy player, underscoring just how stretched Barcelona’s options have become at a pivotal moment in the season
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