Injury headache for Hansi Flick: Barcelona lose two key defenders ahead of blockbuster fixtures

Following an emphatic 5-2 victory over Real Betis, two key defensive regulars suffered injuries, severely disrupting the German manager's plans ahead of crucial upcoming clashes against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and the eagerly anticipated El Clásico against Real Madrid.

Eric García picked up a right thigh muscle injury and is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks. Adding further concern for the manager is versatile defender Jules Koundé, who suffered a sprained left ankle, with no definitive recovery timeline set as of yet.

With both players highly unlikely to feature in the upcoming fixtures, Hansi Flick must turn to alternative options. The defensive reshuffle could open the door for the likes of Gerard Martín, Pau Cubarsí, Xavi Espart, João Cancelo, or Alejandro Balde to step up.