According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Barcelona have suffered a significant setback ahead of their highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid, with attacking midfielder Dani Olmo reportedly set to miss the encounter because of an adductor injury.

The Spanish international sustained the injury during Barcelona’s 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night, leaving manager Hansi Flick with another selection headache before Sunday’s meeting with their fierce rivals.

According to a report by SPORT journalist Carlos Monfort, medical tests confirmed that Olmo has suffered an adductor tear that is expected to keep him out of action for approximately four weeks.

Olmo started Barcelona’s European clash at Parc des Princes but lasted only 27 minutes before being forced off following a collision with PSG midfielder Vitinha. Flick subsequently introduced Fermin Lopez as his replacement.

The diagnosis means Olmo is expected to miss the first El Clasico of the 2026/27 campaign, dealing a considerable blow to Barcelona’s preparations for the crucial La Liga fixture at Spotify Camp Nou.

Olmo has the ability to operate between the lines, create opportunities and link the midfield with the forward line. His absence will therefore leave Flick with fewer options when deciding how to approach a match in which attacking creativity and midfield control could prove decisive.

Fermin Lopez is one possible candidate to take on greater responsibility in the attacking midfield position after replacing Olmo against PSG. However, Flick could also consider alternative tactical adjustments depending on the availability of his other players.

The injury is particularly frustrating for Barcelona because it comes at a time when several other members of the squad are dealing with fitness concerns.

Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde reportedly picked up injuries during the weekend encounter against Real Betis, leaving their availability for the Clasico uncertain. Andreas Christensen is also listed among the club’s injured players, while Roony Bardghji remains a long-term absentee.

The potential absence of multiple defensive options could make Flick’s task even more complicated as he attempts to prepare his team for Real Madrid’s attacking threat.

Barcelona will also be looking to respond after their disappointing defeat to PSG. Losing Olmo ahead of such an important domestic fixture makes that challenge more difficult, particularly if the Catalan side are unable to recover other injured players in time.

For Real Madrid, the news could provide an opportunity to take advantage of Barcelona’s selection problems. The visitors will hope to exploit any disruption in their opponents’ midfield and defensive structure as they seek a positive result.

Nevertheless, Olmo’s absence does not automatically hand Madrid the advantage. Barcelona still have alternative attacking options, and Flick will have to find the right combination to maintain the team’s threat despite the midfielder’s unavailability.