Barcelona faces a critical problem on the fullback positions, with both starters sidelined by injuries. Jules Koundé suffered a thigh injury during the Copa del Rey semifinal against Atlético Madrid, and his replacement on the left flank, Alejandro Balde, also sustained a muscle injury. Both players are expected to be out for about a month.
Manager Hansi Flick has had to find alternative solutions. Versatile players like João Cancelo and Gerard Moreno can cover both fullback roles as needed. Additionally, Flick is redeploying central defenders Eric García and Ronald Araújo, who have previously played as fullbacks in certain matches. The coach also looks to youth players from the reserve squad — Guillem Víctor and Xavi Esparza on the right, and Duró and Walon on the left — to fill the gaps.
With important games ahead in La Liga and the Champions League, this approach helps maintain defensive balance and flexibility. Flick has time to test formations before the match against Athletic Club at San Mamés.
Ultimately, Flick’s adaptive strategy, relying on player versatility and repurposed central defenders on the flanks, could prove crucial for Barcelona’s ability to navigate this challenging part of the season.
