Barcelona have confirmed that teenage forward Shane Kluivert will be sidelined for approximately eight weeks after suffering an injury to the biceps femoris muscle in his left leg, dealing a setback to the youngster’s development within the club’s academy system.

The 19-year-old, who is the son of former Barcelona striker Patrick Kluivert, has continued to make progress through the club’s youth ranks and recently attracted the attention of head coach Hansi Flick through his performances.

Kluivert took part in Barcelona’s pre-season preparations and also featured for Juvenil A in the UEFA Youth League. However, his latest injury ruled him out of Sunday afternoon’s fixture against Olot, interrupting his involvement in the current campaign.

Barcelona confirmed the diagnosis in an official medical statement, outlining the nature of the injury and the anticipated period of recovery. The club announced that the forward had sustained a biceps femoris injury in his left leg and was expected to be unavailable for around eight weeks.

The biceps femoris is one of the muscles that make up the hamstring group, which plays an important role in sprinting, acceleration and changing direction. Its function is particularly relevant to attacking players who depend on speed and quick movements to get past defenders.

For Kluivert, the injury means his immediate focus must shift from competing for playing opportunities to completing his rehabilitation. His return will depend on how he responds to treatment and whether medical staff determine that he is ready to resume training and eventually return to competitive action.

The setback comes after the young forward gained valuable experience by training with Flick’s senior squad during pre-season. Although he has yet to make his competitive debut for Barcelona’s first team, the opportunity to work alongside senior players has provided an important step in his development.

His versatility across the forward line has also helped maintain his standing within the club’s development structure. A successful recovery would allow him to resume his progress and continue working towards earning further opportunities at a higher level.

Barcelona’s youth setup is dealing with another injury concern involving goalkeeper Eder Aller, who recently underwent surgery for a problem affecting his right hip. Aller is expected to spend approximately four months on the sidelines, leaving the academy with another extended absence to manage.

The two injuries have raised concerns about player availability across the club’s youth teams, particularly as the season progresses and competitive demands increase. Prolonged absences can affect team selection, preparation and the continuity young players need to develop through regular football.

For Barça Atlètic and the wider academy structure, managing rehabilitation and maintaining squad depth will be important while the injured players recover. Kluivert’s absence is particularly significant for his individual development, given the progress he had made during pre-season and his involvement in youth competitions.

Barcelona will now monitor his rehabilitation before determining when he can return to training. Although the projected recovery period provides an indication of how long he may be unavailable, his medical progress will ultimately determine when he can resume playing.