FC Barcelona: Hansi Flick's major concern ahead of El Clásico

25.10.26 16:00 LaLiga Spain

Barcelona

-

:

Real Madrid

-

Three days before the Clásico against Real Madrid, Hansi Flick is facing a genuine defensive headache.

Following FC Barcelona’s 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last Tuesday, Hansi Flick is concerned about the fragility of his defense, particularly out wide. According to Sport, Hansi Flick’s main concern is the absence of Eric Garcia, who was injured during the match against Betis and will be unavailable for at least three weeks.

The Spanish defender is regarded by Flick as the true leader of his defense. He is capable of playing both in central defense and at right-back. Hansi Flick even sees him as Íñigo Martínez’s successor, with added versatility.

Hansi Flick without a reassuring solution

The German coach is wary of the Portuguese manager’s ability to exploit the spaces left on the wings. Despite Vinicius Junior’s absence, the Madrid side have fast players such as Yan Diomandé and Denzel Dumfries, who could cause problems for Barcelona’s full-backs.

Read also: 2026 Ballon d’Or: Real Madrid end their boycott, several players expected

This is an area in which the German coach is struggling to find reliable solutions. Alejandro Balde has fallen down the pecking order, Jules Koundé is playing less than expected and João Cancelo does not provide all the defensive assurances expected.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

Related teams and leagues

Barcelona

Real Madrid

LaLiga Spain