FC Barcelona brace for a defensive crisis as a pivotal player is sidelined for their La Liga battle against Getafe.
With the fifth matchday of the season fast approaching, the Blaugrana face a defensive crisis following a grueling Champions League encounter.
The demanding schedule, coupled with a growing injury list, has left the team scrambling to adjust, particularly in the backline, where a key player’s absence could force tactical reshuffles.
Manager Flick now faces the challenge of balancing his squad’s workload with another midweek fixture against Oviedo on the horizon, making careful rotation critical to maintaining Barcelona’s momentum in a fiercely competitive campaign.
The player in question is young defender Pau Cubarsi, who is almost certain to miss the Getafe clash after sustaining a left knee injury during Barcelona’s recent Champions League match against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Substituted around the 70th minute and seen icing his knee, the 18-year-old has not trained with the squad since, missing both Friday and Saturday sessions.
While the injury is not deemed serious, Barcelona are taking a cautious approach to avoid aggravating the issue, ruling Cubarsi out for Sunday’s game.
His absence is a blow, given his status as a near-guaranteed starter in defense.
Adding to Flick’s woes, several other players were absent from Saturday’s training, including Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gavi, Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, and Dro, the latter sidelined by ongoing fitness concerns.
However, there were bright spots, with academy talents Toni Fernandez, Jofre Torrents, and Emilio Bernad stepping up.
Bernad, in particular, will act as the third-choice goalkeeper with Diego Kochen away at the U20 World Cup in Chile.
With Cubarsi sidelined, Flick must navigate this defensive headache carefully.
The Getafe match offers no margin for error, and Barcelona’s depth will be tested. As the team looks to maintain its La Liga charge, all eyes will be on how Flick adapts to this latest challenge.
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