dailyloe.com – Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has named his squad for tonight’s pivotal La Liga away match against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium. The team aims to solidify its position at the top of the league table in this fourth meeting between the sides this season. The squad announcement reveals significant returns and notable absences due to injury.
The major development is the return of defenders Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde. Both players have received official medical clearance after recovering from hamstring injuries. Their availability provides a significant boost to Barcelona’s defensive options for the high-stakes fixture.
Meanwhile, defender Eric Garcia is also reported as fully fit and ready to start. He had been limited in recent matches due to fitness concerns. His return further bolsters the team’s defensive depth ahead of the crucial encounter.
However, the squad list confirms continued absences for key players. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong remains sidelined and is now joined by winger Raphinha. Defender Andreas Christensen is also an injury-enforced absentee for the visiting side.
Manager Flick has called up academy prospects Tommy Marques and Xavi Espart for the match. Goalkeeper Eder Aller will serve as the third-choice keeper, replacing Diego Kochen in the squad for this fixture.
A disciplinary note highlights that Marc Bernal and Jules Kounde are both on four yellow cards. A caution for either player tonight would trigger a suspension. They would then miss next week’s Catalan derby against RCD Espanyol.[]
Source: Yahoo Sports
