Huge blow for Barcelona! Key defensive duo sidelined ahead of crucial fixtures

Pulse Sports Team 18:12 - 18 October 2026

La Liga leaders FC Barcelona have suffered an injury setback ahead of next week's crucial clashes, losing defenders Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde. Both were injured during Saturday's 5-2 round 9 victory away at Real Betis.

Garcia sustained a hamstring injury and faces three to four weeks on the sidelines. He will miss Tuesday's blockbuster Champions League league-phase clash against Paris Saint-Germain as well as the weekend's El Clasico showdown with Real Madrid. Meanwhile, Kounde is ruled out of the PSG tie due to a sprained ankle, though Barcelona officials believe there is a chance he could recover in time to face Real, according to AFP.