Barcelona will face Aston Villa without Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia in the Champions League on Wednesday. Both defenders trained separately from the squad and remain unavailable, extending an injury crisis that has plagued the team's defense in recent weeks. Manager Hansi Flick must choose between Gerard Martin and Frenkie de Jong to partner with Pau Cubarsi against the in-form English side.
Garcia and Kounde suffered injuries during Barcelona's La Liga win over Real Betis and have yet to complete their recoveries. The pair are expected to target a return against Atletico Madrid in the following weekend fixture. Their absence represents a significant blow given Aston Villa's recent form, which includes a victory over Manchester City.
Flick faces a tactical decision with limited defensive options available. Martin, a trusted defender under the manager, has carried an injury but received rest in the recent match against Alaves. De Jong appeared in defense against Alaves and delivered a solid display, though he operates primarily as a midfielder rather than a defender by position.
