Barcelona defender set to miss Getafe clash after not training with group | OneFootball

With just a day to go before Barcelona face Getafe at Estadi Johan Cruyff, it looks increasingly unlikely that Pau Cubarsi will be available, reports Mundo Deportivo.

The young defender was forced off at St. James’ Park after feeling discomfort in his left knee.

In Saturday’s training session, the final one before Sunday’s fixture, Cubarsi did not take part with the rest of the squad, leaving him in serious doubt for the fifth La Liga matchday.

Cubarsi has been pretty much a guaranteed starter for Barcelona in defence, but had to be taken off around the 70th-minute mark, following which he was seen icing his knee.

The 18-year-old did not work with the rest of the group on Friday and has not participated in today’s session either. While the issue is not serious, Barça do not wish to take any risks and, as such, are exercising caution with him.

Cubarsi picked up a knock vs Newcastle. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

As such, Cubarsi’s availability for the game against Getafe tomorrow is unlikely.

Also absent from training were casualties Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gavi, Alejandro Balde and Lamine Yamal, as well as Dro, who has not featured in recent call-ups due to ongoing fitness issues.

On the positive side, Hansi Flick was able to count on the rest of the available players, plus academy talents Toni Fernandez, Jofre Torrents, and Emilio Bernad.

The latter will serve as the third-choice goalkeeper, with Diego Kochen away on international duty with the United States for the U20 World Cup in Chile.

The Barça coach now faces a fresh defensive headache and will need to manage his rotations carefully after the demanding Champions League fixture. With little recovery time, Flick must balance workloads ahead of another midweek game, this time against Oviedo.