Bad News for Barça: Two Key Absentees Ahead of Real Sociedad Clash

After a thrilling 5-2 victory over Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League, FC Barcelona is preparing for a tough away match against Real Sociedad in La Liga. However, the Catalan side could be without two key players for this crucial fixture, putting added pressure on coach Hansi Flick and his squad.

**Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal’s Availability in Doubt**

One of the main concerns is Dani Olmo, who missed training the day before the match against Real Sociedad due to an undisclosed illness. The Spanish international, who recently transferred from RB Leipzig, is uncertain for the match, though there’s still a possibility he could recover in time to make the squad. His absence would be a major blow for Barcelona, as Olmo has quickly become a key attacking figure this season.

Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old forward, is also a doubt for the match. Yamal was seen working out separately in the gym instead of joining the main squad, suggesting he’s still recovering from a previous injury. Given his impressive performances this season, Yamal’s potential absence would be another significant loss for Barcelona, especially considering his impact in attack and his ability to create chances on the wing.

**An Already Extensive Injury List**

Barcelona’s injury issues extend beyond Olmo and Yamal. Coach Hansi Flick will also be without several other key players for the trip to Real Sociedad’s Reale Arena. First-choice goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is sidelined, as is central defender Andreas Christensen. The team will also be missing winger Ferran Torres, defender Ronald Araujo, and center-back Eric Garcia, leaving them short in both defense and attack. Young player Marc Bernal is also unavailable. These absences significantly weaken Barcelona’s squad, increasing the pressure on the remaining players to step up.

**Real Sociedad: A Tough Test Ahead**

Barcelona faces a tough challenge in San Sebastián, as Real Sociedad is traditionally strong at home. With so many regular starters unavailable, Barcelona’s depth will be tested, particularly in defense. Real Sociedad will be eager to exploit any vulnerabilities, especially with several of Barcelona’s key defenders missing.

**A Critical Challenge for Hansi Flick**

For coach Hansi Flick, this series of absences comes at a pivotal time in the season. After a dominant Champions League performance, Barcelona will need to refocus on La Liga, where their results have been more inconsistent. Flick will need to adapt his tactics to cope with the injuries and make the most of the players available. This match will be a key test of his coaching skills as hetries to field a competitive team despite the setbacks.

With multiple key players unavailable and uncertainty around others, Barcelona’s depth will be stretched in the coming days. The next few hours are critical for Flick and his team, as they look to avoid a setback at the Reale Arena and maintain their momentum in La Liga.