Barcelona dealt big injury blow as key player set to be out for 3 weeks after picking up knock in Inter Milan UCL clash: Reports

Barcelona have been dealt a significant setback as defender Jules Koundé is expected to be sidelined for approximately three weeks following a hamstring injury sustained during their UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Inter Milan on April 30, 2025. (Barcelona dealt big injury blow as key player set to be out for 3 …)

The French international was forced off the pitch in the 42nd minute of the match at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, with Eric García coming on as his replacement. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed a distal hamstring injury in his left leg. (Barcelona dealt blow as star player gets subbed out after picking up …, Barcelona dealt big injury blow as key player set to be out for 3 …)

Koundé’s absence comes at a crucial juncture for Barcelona, who are contending for both the La Liga title and a spot in the Champions League final. The team is set to face Inter Milan in the decisive second leg at San Siro on May 6, followed by a pivotal El Clásico against Real Madrid on May 11. (Barcelona defender Koundé faces a spell out with hamstring injury, Barcelona dealt big injury blow as key player set to be out for 3 …)

Throughout the season, Koundé has been instrumental in Barcelona’s defense, making 53 appearances across all competitions. His contributions include a memorable extra-time goal against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final, securing the club’s 32nd title in the competition. (Barcelona defender Koundé faces a spell out with hamstring injury, Barcelona dealt big injury blow as key player set to be out for 3 …)

Manager Hansi Flick now faces the challenge of reorganizing his defense in Koundé’s absence. Options include deploying Eric García, who replaced Koundé against Inter, or utilizing Ronald Araújo, who has experience playing at right-back. Additionally, 18-year-old Héctor Fort could be considered, having accumulated 447 minutes over 13 La Liga matches this season. (Why is Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski not playing in Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan?, Barcelona dealt big injury blow as key player set to be out for 3 …)

Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities were evident in the 3-3 draw against Inter, particularly during set-piece situations. The team will need to address these issues promptly to maintain their competitive edge in upcoming fixtures.

Compounding Barcelona’s challenges, striker Robert Lewandowski is also sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained in mid-April. His absence was felt during the first leg against Inter, and his availability for the second leg remains uncertain. (Why is Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski not playing in Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan?)

Despite these setbacks, Barcelona’s attacking prowess remains formidable. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal delivered a standout performance against Inter, scoring a brilliant solo goal and becoming the youngest player to net in a Champions League semi-final. His contributions, along with goals from Ferran Torres and Raphinha, underscore the team’s offensive depth. (Barcelona dealt blow as star player gets subbed out after picking up …)

Manager Flick has emphasized the importance of tactical discipline and minimizing errors, especially when facing teams like Inter that excel in counter-attacks. With key players unavailable, strategic adjustments will be crucial in the upcoming matches. (Flick confirms Szczesny as UCL goalkeeper & talks strategy for Inter)

The upcoming fixtures are critical for Barcelona’s season objectives. A victory against Inter would secure a place in the Champions League final, while a win in El Clásico could solidify their lead in La Liga. The team’s resilience and adaptability will be tested in the absence of key players.

In summary, Jules Koundé’s injury is a significant blow to Barcelona’s ambitions. The team’s ability to navigate this challenging period will depend on effective squad rotation, tactical acumen, and the emergence of players stepping up to fill the void left by sidelined teammates. (Barcelona defender Koundé faces a spell out with hamstring injury)