Barcelona failed to overturn the result in the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid, but are now paying the price for the great effort made in that match.
Coach Hansi Flick was forced to make two substitutions due to injuries, while several players looked clearly exhausted at the end of the match.
In the 11th minute, Jules Kounde, the player most activated by Flick since his arrival at the club, was replaced by Alejandro Balde.
The Frenchman, who had been almost injury-free during his time at Barcelona, collapsed on the pitch holding the back of his thigh.
Balde came in to replace him, while Joao Cancelo moved to the right wing of defense. However, shortly before the 70th minute, Balde was also forced to leave the game.
He was seen fighting back tears as he left the field, also with a muscle problem.
The news for both players is not positive. According to Mundo Deportivo, both have suffered thigh muscle injuries and are expected to be out for around a month, although they will undergo further tests on Wednesday.
Their possible comeback could happen against Atlético Madrid at the ‘Metropolitano’ stadium on April 4 or 5.
This situation will force Flick to improvise in both Champions League round of 16 matches against Newcastle United, as well as in the three La Liga matches against Athletic Bilbao, Sevilla and Rayo Vallecano.
Kounde and Balde join Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Andreas Christensen and Frenkie De Jong on the injured list.