Headline: Barcelona’s Hansi Flick Faces Injury Challenges Despite Strong Performances from Key Players
Barcelona’s injury concerns under Hansi Flick have intensified the importance of squad availability for the German manager. According to a report from SPORT, two players have emerged as standouts: Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin, the only outfield players among 23 who have not missed a single match due to injury since Flick took charge for the 2024/25 season.
As established players like Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Pedri have faced recurring injuries, Cubarsi and Martin’s consistency has offered Flick some stability in a defense that has often required adjustments.
Cubarsi and Gerard Martin Provide Rare Injury Consistency
Pau Cubarsi has participated in 117 matches this season, missing only 16, with only two of those absences due to suspension rather than injury. Remarkably, even an ankle issue sustained while playing for Spain in March 2025 did not sideline him from Barcelona’s games.
Gerard Martin has also been a reliable presence, featuring in 107 matches and missing 25, all due to selection choices rather than physical ailments. Although he did suffer a metacarpal fracture, this injury occurred post-season, leaving his availability untouched.
Szczesny’s Record Comes with an Important Qualification
Wojciech Szczesny may also be regarded as one of Barcelona’s injury-free players since joining in October 2024, although his situation differs as he has made just 43 appearances.
Despite experiencing the flu and gastroenteritis, both instances did not result from physical injuries, highlighting that his availability for selection has not been consistent.
As a result, Cubarsi and Gerard Martin stand out for maintaining their injury-free records while being significantly more active on the field.
Christensen Shows the Other Side of Barcelona’s Injury Problems
Conversely, Andreas Christensen represents a contrasting aspect of Barcelona’s injury challenges. He has spent 433 days sidelined due to injuries, equivalent to more than a year out of competitive action.
This extended absence has hindered Flick’s options in defense, affecting team consistency and leading to adjustments like moving Martin to center-back from his regular left-back position.
