Just in: Key Barcelona defender will miss Real Madrid match due to injury | OneFootball

Just a day into the international break and it appears Barcelona have been dealt with their first major setback, in the form of Andreas Christensen’s injury.

The former Chelsea defender picked up a knock during the first quarter of Denmark’s game against Finland. He was taken off in the 18th minute and looked visibly worried.

Christensen’s fears were confirmed by tests after the match ended, which revealed that the defender had a broken left calf. It will rule him out on the sidelines for at least three to four weeks, reports Diario AS.

This is devastating news for coach Xavi Hernandez, as it means that Christensen will not be available for a crucial second-leg Copa Del Rey semifinal tie against Real Madrid. Barcelona already cannot count on the services of key duo Pedri and Ousmane Dembele in that match.

To have Christensen miss out would be another big blow as the Dane had been a mainstay at the Barcelona backline, alongside the likes of Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde.

His ability to read the game, coupled with his determination to mop up any loose ends had made him an ideal presence at the heart of Barça’s backline, as he helped the team retain the best defensive record in La Liga.

But with Christensen ruled out, coach Xavi will likely have to count on the services of Marcos Alonso against Real Madrid next month. The Spaniard is not a natural at centre-back, but he appears to be the best option, ahead of Eric Garcia, who has fallen out of favour and is even linked with a summer exit.

Christensen, meanwhile, will return to Barcelona to finish his diagnosis. He will continue his recovery under the supervision of the Barcelona team doctors.