FC Barcelona suffers another blow as a key defender’s training setback casts uncertainty over their El Clasico preparations against Real Madrid.
With Hansi Flick sidelined by suspension and Marcus Sorg leading, the Blaugrana are buoyed by the return of Raphinha and Ferran Torres from injury.
However, a fresh concern from Thursday’s training session has raised doubts about a key defender’s availability, adding tension to a squad already stretched by injuries to Dani Olmo, Marc-André ter Stegen, and others as they aim to topple the table-topping champions.
Jules Koundé missed Thursday’s group training after suffering a minor knock, opting for gym work to avoid aggravating the issue, as reported by Diario Sport.
The French right-back, a mainstay in Flick’s high-line system, is expected to rejoin training on Friday, with club sources downplaying concerns, stating the impact has not worsened.
Koundé’s likely return, alongside Frenkie de Jong’s recovery from gastroenteritis, bolsters Barcelona’s chances of fielding a near full-strength squad against Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé.
Andreas Christensen, also absent from Thursday’s session due to gastroenteritis, faces a tighter timeline, with his Clasico inclusion hinging on Friday’s training response.
With Gavi, Joan Garcia, and Olmo ruled out, Koundé’s fitness is critical, especially against Madrid’s depleted defense, missing David Alaba.
His versatility, covering both right-back and center-back, supports Ronald Araujo and Pau Cubarsí, though defensive lapses seen against Girona must be addressed.
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Koundé’s expected return, per the report, could solidify the backline, enabling Sorg to execute Flick’s vision.
As Barcelona chases La Liga’s summit, Koundé’s fitness race is pivotal for a statement Clasico win, blending experience with La Masia’s emerging talents.
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