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Barcelona Face Crisis in Defence After Andreas Christensen Injury

Andreas Christensen

Barcelona are in a precarious position heading into the new year following Andreas Christensen’s ACL injury on Saturday. 

The Catalans currently do not have a nailed-on centre-back to partner Pau Cubarsi in defence. And shopping in the January transfer window is not a straightforward option.

Latest Injury Sidelines Andreas Christensen for Months

In Tuesday’s Copa del Rey clash against Guadalajara, Andreas Christensen made the starting XI for the first time since September. A calf injury had kept him out of action for over two months.

Christensen scored the opening goal for Barca in their hard-fought 2-0 victory over the minnows.

Following his impressive outing in the Copa del Rey, Christensen was set to line up alongside Pau Cubarsi in Sunday’s clash with Villarreal.

However, the centre-back suffered a knee injury during Saturday’s training and limped off the pitch.

After carrying out extensive tests, Barcelona confirmed that he had suffered a partial ACL tear. However, it is unclear how long the player will be out.

Barcelona Face Injury Crisis After Christensen Setback

Barcelona have two players they could use in the centre-back position, but neither option is compelling.

First, there is Ronald Araujo, who has been on a self-requested leave since picking up a red card in the 3-0 defeat to Chelsea in November.

According to reports, the Uruguayan footballer has been suffering from anxiety and emotional distress. It is unclear if he is in a position to play at the highest level.

Then, there is Eric Garcia. Although naturally a defender, Garcia has excelled in the defensive midfield position this season. Since Hansi Flick placed him there, Garcia has not played as a centre-back.

Barcelona could have signed a short-term solution in the January transfer window. However, according to MARCA, the club are still over the Financial Fair Play limit, which limits their options.

Since Barca have not returned to the 1:1 rule, they must submit a report to LaLiga’s Medical Commission to acquire special permission for a potential January transfer.

According to the rule book, Barcelona will be allowed to use 80% of Christensen’s wages to sign a player if it is confirmed that the Dane will be out for at least four months.

Even if they are cleared to sign a new player, Barcelona are not overly excited to exercise the option.

Hansi Flick is reportedly not convinced of the options currently available in the market. He does not want to rush into a signing and hurt the club’s plans for the summer

Barcelona could sign Robert Lewandowski’s successor in the summer, which is likely to require considerable financial commitment. Additionally, a left-footed centre-back is also believed to be on their agenda.

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