"Barcelona's defensive situation has become increasingly complicated in recent days. Both starting full-backs, Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, have picked up injuries that will keep them out for several weeks. Their absence adds to the long-term issue involving Andreas Christensen, who is also expected to miss a large part of the season."
"The 20-year-old centre-back has been a key figure for Barcelona Atlètic and currently serves as the team's captain. He is a tall, left-footed central defender known for his ability to read the game and anticipate danger early, which is an important aspect of the club's playing philosophy."
"Losing three defenders at once has forced Flick to look for solutions beyond the usual first-team options. Fortunately for Barcelona, the club continues to produce talented players through La Masia, and Cortes now appears to be the latest prospect given an opportunity."
Barcelona faces a defensive crisis with three key defenders sidelined by injuries: full-backs Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde will miss several weeks, while Andreas Christensen is expected to miss a large portion of the season. In response, manager Hansi Flick has called up 20-year-old Alvaro Cortes from Barcelona Atlètic to train with the first team. Cortes, who captains Barcelona Atlètic, is a left-footed centre-back known for his game-reading ability and anticipation skills. Despite having senior defenders available including Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, and Joao Cancelo, Barcelona's demanding schedule necessitates additional defensive depth from the academy.
Read at Barca Universal
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