Barcelona's Fullback Crisis Deepens as Flick Scrambles to Field XI Against Athletic Club—Latest Injuries Rock Lineup Plans

Following a devastating Copa del Rey semifinal defeat, Barcelona head to the Basque region to face Athletic Club this Saturday, looking to maintain their La Liga championship pursuit.

Hansi Flick's team delivered an exceptional performance in their previous match and came close to achieving an incredible turnaround to extend their Copa del Rey title campaign. However, the deficit from the opening leg proved insurmountable, allowing Atlético Madrid to secure their place in the final.

Nevertheless, the determination and quality displayed could provide Barcelona with inspiration as they approach the crucial phase of the campaign. Their attention now shifts to maintaining positive form in La Liga, with a victory at San Mamés keeping them in control of the championship race.

Barcelona Suddenly Alarmingly Short of Defenders

Barcelona Suddenly Alarmingly Short of Defenders

Even more damaging than the Copa del Rey knockout were the injuries sustained by both Barcelona's first-choice fullbacks during Tuesday's return leg. Jules Koundé and subsequently Alejandro Balde were compelled to leave the match, with both anticipated to be sidelined for approximately four weeks, though the former may return sooner based on his recovery progress.

Andreas Christensen faces a season-ending absence, leaving Barcelona's defensive options severely limited. Thankfully for Flick, Eric García returns to contention after serving a one-match suspension that marked his first absence this campaign.

García's availability enables temporary center-back Gerard Martín to shift back to his preferred left-back role, covering for Balde. João Cancelo has been impressive recently and will step in for Koundé on the right flank. However, Ronald Araújo remains the sole additional defensive option from the bench—excluding youth academy prospects.

Robert Lewandowski has resumed training while wearing protective gear for his fractured eye socket and may feature on Saturday. Gavi has also returned to practice, though it might be premature to expect the injury-prone midfielder to make his first appearance since last August.

Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Athletic Club (4-2-3-1)

Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Athletic Club (4-2-3-1)

GK: Joan García—Recording back-to-back league shutouts for the first time in 2026 would significantly boost García's chances of earning his debut call-up to Spain's senior squad this month.

RB: João Cancelo—The Portuguese defender has rediscovered his Manchester City form in his recent two appearances, contributing two assists along the way.

CB: Pau Cubarsí—The young defender delivered his finest performance of the campaign in the second leg versus Atléti, demonstrating his potential to become Barcelona's defensive cornerstone.

CB: Eric García—Having appeared in Barça's opening 40 matches this season, García hopes the second leg against Atléti remains his only absence for the remainder of the campaign.

LB: Gerard Martín—While Martín continues developing, his adaptability and availability have proven invaluable to Flick this season. Barcelona are fortunate he remained at the club last summer.

DM: Marc Bernal—Recent weeks suggest we're witnessing Bernal's emergence as a key player. Having fully recovered from his ACL setback, the 18-year-old has embodied the classic Barça midfielder recently, netting four goals this past month.

DM: Pedri—Pedri appeared fatigued and depleted at the final whistle last match. He'll start but may be substituted earlier for rest, having recently returned from injury.

RW: Lamine Yamal—Yamal provided the catalyst that nearly sparked Barça's remarkable comeback. As the season reaches its peak, he's once again displaying world-class form.

AM: Dani Olmo—The battle between Olmo and Fermín López continues, with the blonde attacking midfielder earning the start at San Mamés. He aims to break a five-match streak without a goal or assist.

LW: Raphinha—While the Brazilian drives Barcelona's pressing game, his attacking output has been inconsistent lately. The Catalans desperately need his 2024–25 form during this crucial period.

ST: Ferran Torres—Torres struggles through a difficult patch after a goalless February. Despite receiving scoring opportunities, his wastefulness highlights Barcelona's growing striker concerns, with Lewandowski also underperforming.