Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is expected to miss the crucial second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan after sustaining a hamstring injury during the first leg.
The French international was forced off in the second half of Wednesday night’s dramatic 3-3 draw at the Olympic Stadium. Subsequent medical tests carried out on Thursday confirmed a muscle issue in his left thigh.
“Tests carried out this morning have shown that first team player Jules Kounde has a hamstring injury in his left thigh,” Barcelona said in an official statement. However, the club did not reveal a timeline for the defender’s recovery.
The setback makes Kounde a serious doubt for the upcoming Clasico against Real Madrid on 11 May, and he has already been ruled out of Saturday’s La Liga trip to Real Valladolid.
Kounde, 26, has been a key figure in Xavi’s squad this season, amassing 53 appearances across all competitions. His consistent performances have been instrumental in Barcelona’s pursuit of a historic quadruple, with the club currently sitting four points clear of arch-rivals Real Madrid at the top of La Liga.
Eric Garcia came on to replace Kounde at right-back during the second half against Inter and is expected to retain his place when Barça travel to the San Siro for the decisive return leg next Tuesday.
The injury comes as an untimely blow for the Catalan side, who will be desperate to maintain their momentum on both domestic and European fronts.