Hansi Flick Outlines Barcelona's Defensive Plans for PSG Clash Amid Injury Setbacks
Hansi Flick, Barcelona's manager, has laid out his defensive strategy for their Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, confronting a series of injuries that have hit the squad hard. With key defenders sidelined, Flick is weighing up using midfielders in defense while still maintaining confidence in his team's ability to compete against one of football's elite sides.
Injury Hits Weaken Barcelona's Backline
After securing a win in Seville, Barcelona learned tough news as both Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde are confirmed out for the trip to Paris due to injuries. The situation worsened when Gerard Martin had to come off the field after complaining of foot pain, casting doubt on his availability. This leaves the team short on natural defenders, prompting Flick to consider alternatives from within his midfield options.
Flick Considers Midfielders in Defense
In the pre-game press briefing, Flick explained his fallback plan: "Frenkie de Jong can play, and Alex Campos is also with us. I am certain everything will go well. Perhaps we are not going through the best moment, but we have to accept that." De Jong, recently cleared medically after his recovery, has prior experience as a centre-back during Ronald Koeman’s tenure. Moreover, Rodri has also played centrally in defense while at Manchester City, which might offer another option.
Raphinha Confirmed to Start as Flick Looks Ahead
Despite the defensive challenges, Flick remains optimistic about the upcoming match and announced a key positive note in attack: "He will be in the starting line-up tomorrow," referring to Raphinha. The coach sees the match as a valuable test and urged his players to face it with confidence.
"I think tomorrow’s game is a good test for us. I want our team to play with confidence, as a side that has won its last 11 matches does. We will be facing the best team in the world over the last two years, and this is an opportunity for us."
Focus on PSG Before Looking to Clasico
With a demanding week ahead, including the big clash against PSG before the famous Clasico, Flick is keeping his eyes on the immediate challenge. "The next match is always the most important, and so tomorrow’s match is the most important," he stressed. Regarding Kounde’s injury, Flick hopes for a swift recovery: "We hope Jules Kounde will be ready by the end of the week."
Upcoming Match Details
- Fixture: Paris Saint-Germain vs Barcelona
- Competition: Champions League
- Date: 20 October 2026
- Kick-off: 22:00
