FC Barcelona is dealing with a severe injury crisis at the start of the season. Hansi Flick must improvise as eleven first-team players are unavailable, testing his squad depth and tactical flexibility.
⚠️ Injuries Hit All Positions
Barcelona’s season began with expectations of stability, but instead, the team faces a series of injuries complicating Hansi Flick’s preparations. The club had hoped the offseason absence during the Club World Cup would allow players to rest and gain a physical edge, but the reality is challenging — while Real Madrid dominates, Barça is counting the setbacks.
From goalkeepers to forwards, injuries have hit across the board:
- Marc-André ter Stegen: back surgery after the summer break
- Joan García: meniscus tear, leaving Flick with only Szczęsny available
- Éric García, Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski: minor muscular problems during Asia tour
- Gavi: knee arthroscopy, out for at least four months
- Alejandro Balde: thigh injury
- Lamine Yamal: groin strain from Spain national team duties
Several players are recovering, but Flick missed key options in multiple matches.
📅 A Week of Worries for Flick
Last week was particularly tough for Barça, as four official injury announcements were made:
- Gavi – meniscus surgery, ~4 months out
- Fermín López – psoas muscle problem, ~3 weeks out
- Raphinha – thigh muscle injury, ~3 weeks out
- Joan García – partial meniscus tear, 4–6 weeks out
In total, seven major injuries affect the squad: two meniscus surgeries, three muscular issues, and two special cases (Ter Stegen, Lamine).
🔹 Deco & Flick Keep Barça Afloat
Sporting director Deco has been crucial in navigating this crisis:
- Trusting Joan García
- Extending Szczęsny’s contract, ensuring experienced backup in goal
Hansi Flick has rotated the squad effectively:
- Marcus Rashford steps in for both Lamine Yamal and Raphinha
- Ferran Torres adapts as the central striker
- Gerard Martín reliably fills roles whenever called
Despite the injury crisis, Barcelona has remained competitive and results-driven, showing squad depth.
The return of Balde and Lamine Yamal will provide a vital boost for the coming weeks, easing the pressure on Flick and allowing for more tactical stability.
