According to a report by Barca Universal on Friday, October 23, 2026, Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is expected to miss Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid after failing to recover in time from an injury sustained during the match against Real Betis.

The French international’s absence would be another setback for manager Hansi Flick, who is already dealing with several injury concerns ahead of the crucial La Liga showdown.

Reports indicate that Kounde is now unlikely to feature after missing Barcelona’s latest training session at Ciutat Esportiva. The defender had been working towards regaining full fitness before the weekend, but his recovery has reportedly not progressed sufficiently for him to be considered available.

Barcelona initially hoped the injury would not keep him out for long, as the problem sustained against Real Betis was not believed to be particularly serious. However, despite having around a week to recover, the versatile defender appears unlikely to be ready for the meeting with their fiercest rivals.

Kounde’s potential absence leaves Flick with fewer defensive options at a critical stage of the season. Dani Olmo and Eric Garcia are also reportedly sidelined with injuries, with both players expected to spend at least a month out of action.

There is, however, some encouragement regarding the availability of young defender Xavi Espart. The youngster is expected to be available despite experiencing a fitness scare during Barcelona’s Champions League defeat against Paris Saint-Germain.

Espart could therefore be considered for a place in the starting lineup alongside Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin. Flick will hope the available defenders can deliver disciplined performances despite the team’s growing injury problems.

With Kounde unlikely to play on Sunday, Barcelona’s focus will shift towards helping him recover for the club’s next fixtures. The absence of a midweek Champions League match would give the Frenchman additional time to work on his fitness.

Barcelona are reportedly targeting their October 31 meeting with Alaves as a possible return date for the former Sevilla defender. Kounde will be keen to regain his fitness and reclaim his place in the starting lineup, particularly as Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia are also dealing with fitness concerns.

His return would provide Flick with another defensive option and help ease the pressure on the players currently available as Barcelona navigate a challenging period of the campaign.