Christensen Nears Return as Barcelona's Defensive Crisis Deepens

Overview

• Barcelona are missing multiple senior defenders, with Andreas Christensen, Eric García, Jules Koundé and Txus Espart all sidelined and Pau Cubarsi the only fully fit centre-back.
• Christensen took part in partial group training on Sunday and is the most advanced of the injured defenders but is unlikely to be cleared for the upcoming Champions League match.
• Hansi Flick has ordered cautious rehab and refused to rush comebacks, saying the club does not know exact return dates and will prioritise long-term fitness over immediate returns.
• Flick has used experimental defensive options, including Brian Farinas at right-back and Frenkie de Jong in central defence, while four youngsters have been integrated into training to cover shortages.
• Txus Espart faces a much longer layoff into late 2026 or early 2027, which increases pressure on squad rotation and could force Barcelona to manage minutes for senior players across the congested schedule.