According to Barca Universal on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Barcelona have been handed a potential boost ahead of their Champions League meeting with Paris Saint-Germain, as Gerard Martin is expected to be fit despite picking up a knock during the match against Real Betis.

The news will come as a relief to Hansi Flick, whose defensive options have been reduced by injuries to Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde.

Garcia has been ruled out for a minimum of four weeks with a thigh problem, while Kounde is set to miss the match against PSG and is also doubtful for Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid.

Mundo Deportivo reports that Martin's condition is less concerning than first anticipated. Rather than suffering a significant injury, the young Spaniard is said to be dealing with inflammation in his foot.

As a result, Barcelona remain optimistic that the defender will be available for their trip to Paris. The squad is expected to leave on Monday afternoon, but Martin's final availability will depend on his recovery during the next 48 hours.

Whether he takes part in training ahead of the match will offer a better understanding of his fitness. Flick will be hoping Martin makes sufficient progress to be included in the team for the difficult test against the reigning European champions.

Should he be fit enough to start, Martin could line up alongside Pau Cubarsi in the centre of Barcelona's defence. PSG have several formidable attacking options, with Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue and Maghnes Akliouche capable of causing problems for opposing defenders.

The defender's possible return is particularly significant given Barcelona's limited choices at the back. If Martin is unavailable, Flick may be forced to experiment with his defensive formation to cover the absences.

One possibility is to deploy Frenkie de Jong as a centre-back, while another option would be to give opportunities to talented players from the club's academy.

With Garcia sidelined by a thigh injury and Kounde dealing with an ankle sprain, Martin's potential return could not come at a better time for Barcelona. Flick and his coaching staff will be hoping the defender recovers fully before Tuesday's crucial European fixture.