Barcelona Reeling After Champions League Exit, Major Injury Crisis Looms Ahead of Clásico
Barcelona’s dreams of Champions League glory came to a heartbreaking end after a dramatic 7-6 aggregate defeat to Inter Milan in the semi-finals. Now, just days before the decisive La Liga Clásico against arch-rivals Real Madrid, the Catalan giants are dealing with another crushing setback — a growing injury list that threatens their title ambitions.
According to Marca, central defenders Iñigo Martínez and Eric García both suffered injuries during the grueling second leg against Inter and were forced off, adding to coach Hansi Flick’s mounting defensive concerns.
They join an already lengthy list of absentees, which includes key figures like Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde. The club is also missing promising youngsters Marc Casado and Marc Bernal, leaving Barcelona with six confirmed injuries just days before the season-defining clash.
Both Martínez and García are set to undergo medical tests in the coming hours to assess the extent of their injuries. Early reports suggest they could be doubtful for Sunday’s encounter, which may heavily impact Flick’s defensive setup.
Clásico Carries Heavy Title Implications
With La Liga on the line, Barcelona will be desperate to bounce back from their European disappointment and reignite momentum with a win at the Santiago Bernabéu. A victory over Real Madrid would close the gap at the top and inject renewed belief into a team battered physically and emotionally.
However, the prospect of facing Carlo Ancelotti’s high-flying Madrid side with a depleted backline presents a major challenge.
As fans anxiously await injury updates, the spotlight is now on Flick’s tactical adaptability and the depth of Barça’s squad to weather the storm.
