FC Barcelona is grappling with significant injury challenges as key players Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde are sidelined. In response, Alvaro Cortes has been called up to first-team training, highlighting the club’s urgent need for depth.

Recent reports indicate that head coach Hansi Flick is testing several players from Barcelona Atlètic during training sessions, as injuries to prominent players like Frenkie de Jong, Kounde, and Balde continue to mount.

Cortes, primarily a left-sided centre back, could potentially make the squad for the upcoming league clash against Athletic Club at San Mamés. This situation underscores the growing reliance on youth ranks as the team navigates through its injury crisis.

In a related note, Robert Lewandowski has resumed normal training with the squad, albeit while wearing a protective mask following a small fracture near his left eye socket. His return is a positive sign for the team as they prepare for their next match.

Hansi Flick has several options available for the game against Athletic Club, including Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, and Joao Cancelo. However, the absence of Balde and Kounde raises concerns about the team’s defensive stability.

FC Barcelona’s current situation reflects a broader trend of injury issues affecting their squad depth, forcing the coaching staff to adapt quickly. The reliance on younger players like Cortes may provide fresh energy but also comes with the unpredictability of inexperience.

As the team gears up for the match, observers will be keenly watching how these changes impact their performance. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of Balde’s injury and the timeline for his return.

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