FC Barcelona Reports Hamstring Injuries to Kounde and Balde After Copa del Rey Victory

Synopsis

FC Barcelona has confirmed hamstring injuries to defenders Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde following their recent Copa del Rey victory over Atletico Madrid. Kounde's recovery timeline is uncertain, while Balde is expected to be sidelined for approximately four weeks, raising concerns ahead of crucial matches.

Key Takeaways

Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde sustained hamstring injuries after the Copa del Rey match.

Kounde's recovery timeline is uncertain, while Balde is expected to miss four weeks.

Barcelona has now lost three players to hamstring injuries in a week.

Coach Hansi Flick is concerned about the injury situation and will consult with the medical team.

Barcelona faces crucial fixtures in La Liga and the Champions League ahead.

Barcelona, March 4 (NationPress) - FC Barcelona has confirmed that defenders Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde have suffered hamstring injuries following their 3-0 triumph against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey. The club released an official medical update detailing both injuries.

Barcelona stated that Kounde is dealing with a mid-belly hamstring (biceps femoris) injury in his left thigh, and his return will be contingent on the progress of his recovery. The club has not provided a specific timeframe for his comeback.

In their statement, Barcelona noted, "First-team player Jules Kounde has suffered a mid-belly hamstring (biceps femoris) injury in his left thigh. His recovery progress will determine his availability."

As for Balde, the club reported that the left-back is facing a distal hamstring (biceps femoris) injury in his left thigh, with medical assessments suggesting a recovery period of around four weeks, which will keep him out of several important matches.

"First-team player Alejandro Balde has suffered a distal hamstring (biceps femoris) injury in his left thigh. Examinations indicate that the recovery process will take approximately four weeks,” the statement read.

Kounde's injury occurred early in the match, forcing the French defender to exit the field just 11 minutes after kickoff. Balde, who participated in the game, also had to leave due to discomfort.

In the past week, Barcelona has now lost three players to hamstring injuries, with Frenkie de Jong also sidelined until April.

Coach Hansi Flick expressed concern over the recurring injury issues and plans to discuss player fitness with the medical staff.

"We have two more injuries, and I am not pleased; it's not a good situation," Barca coach Flick shared with TV3. "With Frenkie, it's now three in a week, all suffering from similar injuries. This cannot happen. We need to address this matter with the medical team and fitness coaches to prevent losing multiple players to injury in such a short span," he added.

This dual setback arrives at a crucial juncture as Barcelona prepares to face Athletic Club, Sevilla FC, and Rayo Vallecano in upcoming La Liga matches. Additionally, the team is gearing up for a UEFA Champions League Round of 16 encounter against Newcastle United, scheduled for March 11.

Point of View

The recent hamstring injuries to key Barcelona defenders Kounde and Balde are concerning not only for the team's performance but also for their overall campaign as they face crucial matches ahead. The management's response and player recovery will be closely watched.

NationPress

12 May 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What injuries did Kounde and Balde suffer?

Kounde has a mid-belly hamstring injury in his left thigh, while Balde has a distal hamstring injury in his left thigh.

How long will Kounde be out?

Kounde's return date is uncertain and will depend on the progress of his recovery.

What is the expected recovery time for Balde?

Balde is expected to be sidelined for approximately four weeks.

Who else is injured in the Barcelona squad?

Frenkie de Jong is also out due to a hamstring injury and will be unavailable until April.

When is Barcelona's next match?