Barcelona Recovers Kounde and Balde for Atlético Madrid Clash

G. E (Elbotola)

04 April 2026at09:30

Spanish club Barcelona has announced its squad for the upcoming La Liga match against Atlético Madrid, featuring the return of defensive duo Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde.

After an absence of approximately one month due to left hamstring injuries, the team has regained the services of its players at an ideal time, ahead of the first of three anticipated encounters against the Madrid club.

French international Jules Kounde has recovered from an injury to the middle third of the biceps femoris muscle in his left leg, while his teammate Balde has overcome a contusion in the distal part of the same biceps femoris muscle.

These absences, which lasted for weeks, have concluded with both players receiving the necessary medical clearance to return and participate in the match, which will be hosted at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.

Despite the return of the defensive duo, German coach Hansi Flick continues to face ongoing challenges with absences, as the team is still without Andreas Christensen, Frenkie de Jong, and Raphinha due to injury.

Q&A

What is the latest squad news for Barcelona's match against Atlético Madrid?

Barcelona's squad for the Atlético Madrid match sees the crucial return of defensive duo Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde. Both players have received medical clearance after recovering from their respective left leg injuries, providing a timely boost for the team.

How do Kounde and Balde's returns impact Barcelona's defensive options?

Kounde and Balde's returns significantly bolster Barcelona's defensive line, arriving just before the first of three anticipated encounters against Atlético Madrid. Their availability helps address recent absences, though other key players remain sidelined.

What challenges does Barcelona's coach Hansi Flick still face despite the returns?

Despite the welcome return of Kounde and Balde, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick still contends with ongoing injury challenges. The team continues to be without several important players, impacting squad depth and tactical flexibility for upcoming fixtures.