FC Barcelona have confirmed a significant double injury setback via thier official x handle after both Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde sustained hamstring injuries during the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Atlético Madrid.
Barcelona’s statement:
𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝘂𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 First-team player Alejandro Balde has suffered a distal hamstring (biceps femoris) injury in his left thigh. Examinations indicate that the recovery process will take approximately 4 weeks.
The Catalan side endured a dramatic and physically demanding encounter at Camp Nou, securing a 3–0 victory on the night but exiting the competition 4–3 on aggregate following their heavy first-leg defeat. However, the immediate concern for head coach Hansi Flick is the defensive toll taken during the match.
Softfootball earlier reported that Koundé was forced off inside the opening 15 minutes after appearing to feel discomfort in his left thigh. Balde was introduced as his replacement, only for the Spanish international to suffer a similar fate later in the contest.
After initially providing attacking impetus down the left flank, Balde was withdrawn in the 71st minute, with Ronald Araújo entering the fray to help see out the match.
Following medical examinations conducted at the club’s training facilities, Barcelona released a detailed statement outlining the diagnoses.
After tests carried out on Wednesday on the players Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde, it was revealed that the French defender has an injury to the mid-third of the biceps femoris muscle in his left hamstring. His recovery will dictate his return to action.
While Koundé’s return date remains uncertain and will depend on his rehabilitation progress, Balde is now expected to miss approximately a month of action.
The double setback presents a considerable tactical challenge for Flick, particularly given Balde’s importance as an attacking outlet and Koundé’s versatility across the backline.
Barcelona, currently competing at the top end of La Liga and navigating crucial domestic and European fixtures, now face the prospect of reshuffling their defensive structure during a decisive phase of the campaign.
Losing two established starters in the same fixture underscores the physical demands of the schedule and leaves the squad depth set to be tested in the weeks ahead.
With key matches approaching across competitions, the Blaugrana must now adapt quickly as they aim to maintain momentum despite this defensive double blow.
