It is still only the early phase of the 2026-27 season, but FC Barcelona have already suffered quite a lot due to injuries and physical problems. Over the last few weeks, they have been unable to count on several of their defenders, including Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen, and Xavi Espart.
Similarly, the midfielder Dani Olmo has also been out with an injury for the last few weeks. To make things worse, another key midfielder, [Rodri Hernandez, also suffered a hamstring injury](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/hansi-flick-dealt-major-setback-as-barcelona-lose-key-midfielder-for-three-weeks/), which was confirmed yesterday, while playing in the UEFA Champions League game against Aston Villa on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, there has also been some good news for the Barcelona coach. As [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20261104/1004247063/eric-christensen-esperan-llegar-metropolitano.html) has reported, two defenders, Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen, are close to recovering from their issues, and are working to be able to return to available for the upcoming league game against Atletico Madrid.
However, the closeness of the game means they are pushing to gain the required fitness levels and it is still not certain whether they will be ready in time for this match.
The Spaniard had suffered an injury to his right rectus femoris back in October during the match against Real Betis. He was expected to spend around three to four weeks on the sidelines, and has already missed the games against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Alaves, and Aston Villa.
On the other hand, the Dane suffered his injury back in September, and was expected to remain sidelined with a muscle issue in his left quadriceps. Following the game against Aston Villa, Barcelona have several days to prepare for their next game against Atletico Madrid, which is scheduled for this Sunday.
It remains to be seen whether Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen will be able to train normally in the remaining training sessions, or would need more time to return to action for Barcelona.