Christensen sidelined after partial ACL tear as Barcelona injury woes deepen
Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen faces a prolonged spell out after suffering a partial ACL tear during training on Saturday, dealing the club another blow at the back.
The 29 year old had only just returned to the starting lineup, scoring in Tuesday’s 2 0 Copa del Rey win over Guadalajara in his first start since September, but a twist of the knee has now ruled him out of Sunday’s LaLiga meeting with Villarreal and likely far beyond.
Barcelona confirmed the setback over the weekend, explaining that a conservative treatment plan has been chosen and that the length of Christensen’s recovery will depend on his progress. The timing is especially frustrating given his recent return and growing involvement.
The injury continues an unfortunate pattern for the Danish centre back, who has endured a difficult two year period marked by repeated fitness problems. Last season he was restricted to just six appearances across all competitions due largely to an Achilles issue, while a calf injury had already disrupted his current campaign.
That stands in sharp contrast to his early impact at the club. After arriving from Chelsea on a free transfer, Christensen made 74 appearances across his first two seasons and was a key figure in Barcelona’s 2022 23 LaLiga title win, valued for his composure and positional intelligence.
His absence leaves Barcelona thin in central defence at a crucial stage of the season. Ronald Araújo remains unavailable after being granted a mental health break, forcing the coaching staff to rely on Pau Cubarsí alongside Gerard Martín, a natural full back who has been converted centrally. Jules Koundé and Eric García are further options but neither offers the same profile as Christensen.
The knock also reopens questions about Barcelona’s January plans. Earlier this month, a source told ESPN that the club did not intend to be active in the mid season market, assuming Araújo’s return in 2026. Christensen’s latest setback could prompt a rethink as Barcelona balance immediate needs with longer term planning.
For Christensen, whose contract expires next summer, the focus now shifts to recovery once again. For Barcelona, the challenge is navigating a demanding schedule with limited depth, hoping their defensive reshuffle can hold firm until reinforcements return.