‘I have doubts‘— Hansi Flick confirms possible injury absence of key Barcelona star against Celta Vigo | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have not played at their best in recent weeks and have dropped far too many points for their liking. Their most recent game was a 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League.

Injuries have been the main reason the German coach has been unable to field his preferred XI in most games, but the slump in form of some players has been concerning too.

Jules Kounde is perhaps the best example. The Frenchman has looked a pale shadow of his former self and had to leave training early today after suffering discomfort.

In the pre-match press conference ahead of the Celta Vigo game, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, Hansi Flick confirmed that Kounde is unlikely to make the trip but offered assurance that Eric Garcia is fine to play with a mask. He said:

Kounde looks like a player who desperately needs a break from the game and, as harsh as it sounds, this injury could end up being a blessing in disguise, allowing him to rest and recharge.

Of course, this adds to Hansi Flick’s headaches, as he is now forced to start Eric Garcia at right-back unless he chooses to trust Xavi Espart. In hindsight, the decision to loan out Hector Fort to Elche now looks short-sighted.

It remains to be seen how long Kounde will take to recover from this latest setback. It is a good thing that the international break is around the corner, and Flick will be hoping he is available when they return against Athletic Bilbao.