Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen will return to Barcelona’s squad for Sunday’s La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid, but Jules Kounde is set to miss out again.
The pair have recovered from thigh injuries that kept them sidelined in recent weeks, with Garcia returning to group training this week after missing games against PSG, Real Madrid, Alaves, and Aston Villa. Christensen has been out for almost two months following a thigh strain sustained against Sevilla. Barcelona have been cautious with the Danish defender, allowing him ample time to fully recover, and he is now ready to make a comeback.
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Andreas Christensen
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Kounde, however, remains absent. The French international was not present at training and did not join the squad at Ciutat Esportiva ahead of the trip to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium in Madrid. His absence rules him out of the match against Diego Simeone’s side.
Barcelona will also be without midfielder Rodri, who suffered an injury against Aston Villa earlier this week. Dani Olmo, Xavi Espart, and Roony Bardghji remain unavailable as well.
The match carries significant weight in the title race, with Barcelona currently leading Atletico Madrid by two points. A defeat would see Hansi Flick’s team drop to second place before the international break.
The return of Garcia and Christensen provides a boost to Barcelona’s defensive options at a crucial stage of the season. Garcia’s versatility has been missed since his injury last month, and Christensen’s experience will add depth to the backline.
Atletico Madrid have been strong contenders this season, and the clash will test Barcelona’s ability to maintain their top spot. The absence of Kounde and Rodri means the Blaugrana must rely on their available squad to manage both defensive solidity and midfield control.
Barcelona’s preparations continue as they travel to face a side eager to close the gap in the standings. The fitness updates suggest a slightly strengthened squad, but the missing players could influence the outcome at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Sunday.
According to Yahoo Sports.
