FC Barcelona's planning has suffered a difficult setback this Friday, August 23. The problems with the Achilles tendon that Andreas Christensen has been suffering since last season have worsened and the Dane will have to undergo treatment to solve them. His recovery process will keep him off the pitch for between one and two months, thus representing a sensitive loss for Hansi Flick.
The defender was one of the big absentees in the last training session of the Barça squad before receiving Athletic Club this Saturday in Montjuïc. The German coach spoke about the matter and was blunt in stating that the defender did not train with his teammates because he had physical problems and that since he was not at his best he could not count on him, thus confirming his absence for the clash against the Bilbao team and the following league matches.
Thus, during his time in the Catalan club's infirmary, Christensen will miss several matches, starting with the league opener against Athletic Bilbao. The Denmark international will also be unavailable for the next two matches against Rayo Vallecano and Valladolid, and will then take advantage of the two weeks of the first international break in September to return to the first team.
After this month out, Andreas is expected to be available against Getafe or Osasuna, matches that will take place at the end of September. In this way, the possible departure of the footballer from Barcelona is completely ruled out. Although Flick is counting on him, Barça considered his transfer as an emergency option in the face of economic problems since the player has a market and they could get a good 'cut' from his sale. However, his injury removes any probability of him being transferred, which is why the centre-back will face his third season as a culé.
Problems in the centre of defence
With Christensen out, Lenglet on loan to Atlético de Madrid and Ronald Araújo's long-term injury, whose return is expected at the end of this year or the beginning of next year, Barça 'only' have Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez and Eric García to cover the centre of defence. Jules Koundé could also return to his natural position if necessary, although this scenario is complicated since, at the moment, the Frenchman does not have a reliable replacement. Flick has a new 'headache'.