Flick weighs De Jong and Rodri as Barcelona’s defensive options for PSG test

Barcelona face a defensive selection headache

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is short of defensive options ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Paris Saint-Germain. Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen have been ruled out, while Gerard Martín remains a doubt.

Flick said Frenkie de Jong and Rodri could be considered at centre-back, and noted that Àlex Campos had joined first-team training for the first time. “We have options. Rodri and Frenkie can play [center-back]. Àlex Campos is with us; he’s trained with us for the first time. I’m positive,” he said.

Barcelona prepare for their Champions League match against PSG

The coach did not confirm whether Martín would be fit to start. If available, he could partner Pau Cubarsí, but Flick indicated he is prepared to consider alternatives if the full-back is not ready.

“It’s not the best time for us, but we have to accept it. Jules will be back soon; maybe he’ll be an option for the weekend. We have to wait and see,” Flick said, referring to Kounde’s expected return. Barcelona must settle on a back-line combination for the PSG fixture while managing the absences and fitness concerns.