Andreas Christensen’s injury troubles continue to haunt him. After missing several training sessions last week due to intestinal issues, the Danish defender was expected to return for El Clásico. However, according to Marta Ramón of RAC1, his absence from the squad was not due to illness but to a new muscle problem in the soleus of his right leg.
This latest setback once again puts Christensen’s availability in doubt ahead of Barcelona’s upcoming league match against Elche. While his participation has not been completely ruled out, the medical staff and coaching team are taking a cautious approach.
A recurring issue that limits his impact
Christensen’s time at Barcelona has been marked by moments of quality interrupted by repeated injuries. The defender underwent surgery last season to address chronic Achilles tendon problems, which limited him to only six appearances across all competitions.
Although this season he has already surpassed that figure with nine matches played, he still has not achieved the consistency required to be a reliable piece in Hansi Flick’s system. His fragile fitness continues to prevent him from becoming a key player for the German coach, just as he once was for Xavi Hernández.
Under Xavi’s management, Christensen was vital both as a centre-back alongside Ronald Araujo and as a makeshift pivot when the team needed defensive stability. He played an essential role during Barça’s 2022–23 LaLiga and Supercopa successes. Now, however, his recurring physical problems have reduced his influence, and Flick appears to be prioritizing other options in central defense.
Contract situation and long-term outlook
Christensen’s contract runs until June 2026, but his future beyond that remains uncertain. The club values his professionalism and tactical intelligence, yet there are concerns about his durability and long-term contribution.
Sources close to the technical staff suggest that the defender’s renewal is not currently a priority. While Christensen would prefer to stay in Barcelona, his reduced playing time and continued injury issues make it difficult to justify a contract extension under the current conditions.
Still, there is no immediate intention to part ways. Barça plan to evaluate his situation later in the season, depending on how he recovers and performs in the months ahead.
The road to recovery
For now, Christensen’s focus is on returning to full fitness and regaining Flick’s trust. The Danish international has already shown in the past that, when healthy, he can be one of the most reliable defenders in Europe. What remains to be seen is whether his body will allow him to maintain that level across an entire season.
Barça, meanwhile, continue to hope for stability at the back as they navigate a demanding stretch of fixtures both in LaLiga and in Europe.
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