According to a report by GOAL on Sunday October 18, 2026, Barcelona have suffered a major injury setback ahead of their crucial Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain and the highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid.

Eric Garcia has been ruled out for three to four weeks after sustaining a muscle injury in the rectus femoris of his right thigh during Barcelona’s 5-2 victory over Real Betis in La Liga.

The Spanish defender, who scored during the encounter, was forced off in the closing stages of the match before undergoing medical examinations. His injury means he will miss Tuesday’s trip to face PSG and next Sunday’s showdown with Real Madrid.

Garcia is also expected to be unavailable for Barcelona’s upcoming fixtures against Alaves, Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid, leaving manager Hansi Flick with fewer defensive options during a demanding period of the season.

Meanwhile, Jules Kounde has emerged as a major doubt for El Clasico after suffering a left ankle sprain. The French defender has already been ruled out of the PSG encounter, with his fitness for the meeting with Real Madrid now a significant concern.

Barcelona will be hoping Kounde can recover in time for the clash at the Santiago Bernabeu, although his availability will depend on his progress over the coming days.

There is, however, some positive news regarding Gerard Martin, who was substituted at half-time against Real Betis after experiencing discomfort in his foot. Initial assessments suggest inflammation rather than a serious structural injury, raising hopes that he could travel with the squad to Paris.

Flick will be eager to have Martin available as Barcelona attempt to navigate their upcoming fixtures with a depleted defence.

The injury concerns come despite Barcelona’s impressive start to the campaign. They have won all nine of their opening La Liga matches and recorded victories over Feyenoord and Galatasaray in the Champions League.

However, with PSG and Real Madrid awaiting, Garcia’s absence and the uncertainty surrounding Kounde could provide Flick with one of his biggest challenges of the season so far.