Barcelona’s defensive struggles continue as Danish international Andreas Christensen has suffered another injury setback, just days after being medically cleared to return to action. The 28-year-old centre-back was expected to feature against Real Sociedad this weekend but will now be sidelined for another month due to a calf issue.
Manager Hansi Flick confirmed the unfortunate news, revealing that Christensen sustained the injury during a training session on Saturday. This latest setback adds to the defender’s frustrating season, where he has managed only one appearance due to persistent fitness concerns.
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Recurring Fitness Troubles for Christensen
Christensen’s injury troubles began at the start of the season when he was forced off after playing just a few minutes in the LaLiga opener against Valencia in August. The initial issue, an Achilles problem, kept him out until January.
However, his return to training was short-lived as he suffered a calf injury, which ruled him out until the end of February. Despite being given medical clearance earlier this week, another calf strain in training has extended his time on the sidelines.
Hansi Flick addressed the situation, stating, “What I can say now is that Andreas got injured in this morning’s training session. He was an option for Real Sociedad on Sunday, but again he is injured. We are looking now how heavy is the injury. Hopefully, it’s not so much.”
This latest blow comes at a crucial juncture for Barcelona, who are juggling their domestic and European commitments in the coming weeks.
Barcelona’s Defensive Adjustments
Since Christensen’s absence, Barcelona have relied on Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez as their preferred centre-back duo. Ronald Araújo and Eric García have provided additional cover, but Flick is keen on maintaining depth in the squad.
The coach emphasized the importance of having sufficient options in central defense, explaining, “We want at least four players for this position. Normally we have five really good centre-backs, but without Andreas, it’s four. Ronald also had a huge injury, but he’s doing really good now. He’s a leader. He has everything to reach a very high level. I am really happy with all of them.”
Despite Araújo’s return to full fitness, Christensen’s unavailability puts additional pressure on the remaining defenders as Barcelona prepare for a busy schedule ahead.
Upcoming Fixtures and Squad Concerns
Barcelona’s fixture list is packed with high-stakes encounters. Following their thrilling 4-4 draw against Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal, they host Real Sociedad in LaLiga before traveling to Benfica for a crucial Champions League tie.
With fixtures coming thick and fast, squad depth will be essential for Flick as he navigates a critical phase of the season. The absence of Christensen further limits the team’s defensive options, increasing the workload on the available centre-backs.
Christensen, who arrived at Barcelona on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2022, was instrumental in their LaLiga-winning campaign last season, making 32 appearances. His adaptability, which allowed him to operate as a defensive midfielder under Xavi Hernández, made him a valuable asset. However, injuries have restricted his involvement this season, disrupting the team’s stability at the back.
As Barcelona strive to maintain their domestic and European ambitions, Christensen’s latest injury presents another challenge for Flick’s squad. While the team has defensive depth, the absence of a key player like Christensen will test their resilience in the coming weeks.
FAQs
What is Andreas Christensen’s latest injury?
Christensen has suffered a fresh calf injury during training, just days after being cleared to return. He is expected to be sidelined for four weeks.
How long has Christensen been out this season?
The Danish defender has managed just one appearance this season due to Achilles and calf issues, keeping him out for the majority of the campaign.
Who are Barcelona’s current first-choice centre-backs?
Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez have emerged as the preferred central defenders, with Ronald Araújo and Eric García providing backup.
What did Barcelona manager Hansi Flick say about Christensen’s injury?
Flick confirmed the injury, stating, “He was an option for Real Sociedad on Sunday, but again he is injured. We are looking now how heavy is the injury. Hopefully, it’s not so much.”
Which key matches will Christensen miss due to this injury?
Christensen is set to miss crucial games, including Barcelona’s LaLiga clash against Real Sociedad and their Champions League fixture against Benfica.
