According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Barcelona defenders Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen are optimistic about recovering from their respective injuries ahead of Sunday's important La Liga encounter against Atletico Madrid.

Both players are currently undergoing rehabilitation programmes and are hopeful of becoming available for selection. Christensen has already returned to training as he continues his recovery, having been out of action for several weeks since September. His return would provide manager Hansi Flick with another experienced defensive option.

Garcia is also making encouraging progress after suffering a thigh injury. The Spanish defender reportedly joined Christensen in training on Wednesday as Barcelona resumed preparations following their Champions League victory over Aston Villa. Both players participated in the session and remain hopeful of featuring against Atletico Madrid.

Their possible return would represent a significant boost for Flick, particularly with Atletico currently just two points behind Barcelona in the La Liga standings. Sunday's result could have important implications for the title race, making the availability of experienced players crucial for the Catalan side.

However, Barcelona have suffered an injury setback in midfield. Rodri was forced off at half-time during the Champions League encounter against Aston Villa after experiencing muscular discomfort.

Subsequent medical examinations confirmed that the midfielder had sustained a minor injury to the biceps femoris muscle in his right leg, ruling him out of Sunday's meeting with Atletico Madrid.

With Rodri unavailable, the potential returns of Christensen and Garcia could become particularly valuable as Flick looks to maintain defensive stability and overall balance within his squad.

Barcelona are yet to make an official decision regarding the availability of either defender, as their chances of featuring against Atletico will depend on their recovery and response to the remaining training sessions.