Barcelona have been dealt another injury concern ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid, with defender Jules Kounde now increasingly unlikely to recover from his ankle problem in time for the encounter.

The France international missed Barcelona’s 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday after suffering an ankle injury during the Catalan giants’ recent La Liga victory over Real Betis.

Although there had been optimism that Kounde would recover in time to face Real Madrid, the latest indications suggest the defender could remain sidelined.

According to Barca Blaugranes, citing Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s medical team believe it is “highly unlikely” that Kounde will be declared fit for Sunday’s showdown.

The 27-year-old is still experiencing discomfort from the ankle sprain, leaving manager Hansi Flick facing a difficult selection decision ahead of one of the biggest fixtures on the Spanish football calendar.

The report also suggests that Kounde could potentially play with the assistance of painkilling injections.

However, Barcelona’s medical staff are concerned that such a decision could aggravate the injury and potentially extend his spell on the sidelines.

Kounde’s possible absence would represent another setback for Flick, who is already dealing with several injury problems in his squad.

Eric Garcia also missed Tuesday’s defeat to PSG and remains unavailable after sustaining a thigh injury against Real Betis.

The Spanish defender is expected to spend between three and four weeks on the sidelines, further reducing Barcelona’s defensive options.

Olmo Joins Barca’s Injury List

Meanwhile, Dani Olmo has joined the club’s injury list after picking up a problem during the Champions League encounter in Paris.

The Spain international has been ruled out for approximately a month, meaning he will also miss the highly anticipated clash with Real Madrid.

With Kounde doubtful and Garcia unavailable, Flick currently has limited options to choose from in defence.

Pau Cubarsi, Xavi Espart, Joao Cancelo, Alejandro Balde and Gerard Martin are the five fit senior defenders available to the German tactician.

The situation could force Flick to make adjustments to his defensive setup as Barcelona prepare to face their fiercest rivals.