According to a report by GOAL on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Barcelona have been hit by a major injury setback ahead of their upcoming encounters with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, with Eric Garcia expected to spend several weeks on the sidelines while Jules Kounde is also struggling with an ankle injury.

The defensive concerns come at a difficult time for Barcelona, who are preparing for two crucial matches that could have a significant impact on their season. Garcia is reportedly facing between three and four weeks out after suffering an injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh during Barcelona's 5-2 victory over Real Betis in La Liga.

The Spanish defender found the net during the encounter but was unable to complete the match after experiencing discomfort towards the closing stages. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed the extent of the injury, leaving Barcelona without his services for their Champions League trip to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday and next Sunday's highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid.

Garcia's absence could extend beyond those two major fixtures. He is also expected to miss Barcelona's upcoming matches against Alaves, Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid, creating additional selection problems for head coach Hansi Flick as his team enters a demanding period of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Kounde's fitness has become another source of concern for the Catalan club. The French international has sustained a sprain to his left ankle, which will prevent him from featuring against PSG. His availability for the meeting with Real Madrid remains uncertain, with Barcelona expected to monitor his recovery before making a final decision.

The club will assess Kounde's condition over the coming days, hoping the defender can recover in time for the trip to the Santiago Bernabeu. His potential absence would further limit Flick's defensive options, particularly with Garcia already ruled out of action.

Barcelona could, however, receive some encouraging news concerning Gerard Martin. The defender was withdrawn at half-time against Real Betis after reporting discomfort in his foot. Initial examinations have indicated that the problem could be inflammation rather than a serious structural injury, giving him a possibility of returning for Tuesday's Champions League encounter.

Despite these injury concerns, Barcelona have enjoyed an impressive beginning to the season. The Spanish champions have won their opening nine La Liga matches and have also secured victories over Feyenoord and Galatasaray in the Champions League.

Nevertheless, losing Garcia and potentially Kounde presents a considerable challenge for Flick. Barcelona must now find suitable defensive solutions ahead of their meeting with PSG before turning their attention to the rivalry with Real Madrid.

With both fixtures carrying enormous importance, the club will be hoping their remaining defenders can step up while the injured players work towards recovery.