Barcelona has been dealt a significant blow, suffering two defensive injuries during their Copa del Rey semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde both sustained hamstring injuries at the Spotify Camp Nou and are expected to be sidelined for at least a month. This double setback comes at a crucial juncture of the season for the Catalan giants.
Manager Hansi Flick is now faced with the challenge of finding immediate solutions for his absent starting full-backs. While Joao Cancelo offers a versatile option for either flank, it is anticipated that Eric Garcia (who primarily plays centrally but may be deployed at right-back) and Gerard Martin (another central defender potentially shifting to left-back) will also be utilized to cover the gaps.
Flick is also looking to the club’s renowned youth academy, La Masia, to bolster the squad. According to MD, young left-back Patricio Pacifico participated in Wednesday’s first-team training session and is now a strong candidate for inclusion in the matchday squad for this weekend’s away fixture against Athletic Club.
Pacifico Steps Up Amidst La Masia Injury Woes
Patricio Pacifico, a 19-year-old left-back, joined Barcelona during the winter transfer window from Defensor Sporting. Since his arrival from Uruguay, he has been playing for Barca Atletic. This presents him with a prime opportunity to make a lasting impression on Flick, particularly as another promising La Masia talent, Jofre Torrents, is currently out with a season-ending ankle injury.
All eyes will be on Barcelona’s lineup for their match at San Mames on Saturday. Just three days later, they are scheduled to face Newcastle United in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. Given the severe lack of defensive options, Flick cannot afford to rest key players. While Pacifico is likely to be named as a substitute, any significant playing time would probably be reserved for emergency situations.