Barcelona lose Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde ahead of PSG

Defensive blow for Barcelona

Barcelona will be without defenders Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde for the Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Garcia picked up a thigh injury during the win at Real Betis on Saturday. He faces up to four weeks out, meaning he will also miss the upcoming Clasico against Real Madrid on Sunday.

Kounde sprained his ankle in the same fixture. His availability for the Real Madrid match will be assessed later this week.

Coach Hansi Flick faces selection choices

The absences of Garcia and Kounde leave coach Hansi Flick without his primary right-back options for this season. Joao Cancelo, Xavi Espart, and Alejandro Balde are candidates to fill that position.

Garcia's injury also creates a shortage in central defence because Andreas Christensen is currently sidelined with a thigh problem. Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin are the only fit central defenders available for the trip to Paris.

Flick confirmed that midfielder Frenkie de Jong is another option at the back. De Jong recently returned to training and made the matchday squad at the weekend.

Boosts in attack and midfield

Despite the defensive worries, Barcelona are in a strong position in other areas as they head into their biggest week of the season. Captain Raphinha came off the bench against Real Betis and is ready to play against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

Barcelona have won all 11 of their matches in all competitions so far. They are aiming to keep their perfect run going in France.