Barcelona have suffered a major setback ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Inter Milan, with key defender Jules Koundé ruled out due to a hamstring injury. The French international was forced off before halftime during the thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg and has since undergone medical tests confirming a distal injury to the biceps femoris of his left thigh.

The diagnosis will keep Koundé sidelined for a minimum of three weeks, ruling him out not only for the crucial return leg at the San Siro but also casting significant doubt over his availability for the upcoming La Liga Clásico against Real Madrid on May 11. The timing could not be worse for Hansi Flick’s side, who are locked in a tense European and domestic campaign and cannot afford key absences at this critical stage.

Koundé has been a defensive cornerstone for Barcelona this season, making 53 appearances across all competitions and forming a reliable partnership in the back line. His injury further exposes a back four that has already shown signs of vulnerability, having conceded three goals in the first leg despite home advantage.

In his absence, Flick is expected to explore multiple options to reinforce his defensive unit. Eric García, who came on as Koundé’s replacement in the first leg, is the likeliest candidate to start, though Ronald Araújo could be shifted across to the right if necessary. There’s also a possibility that young Héctor Fort could be handed a surprise start, depending on the tactical setup and Inter’s lineup.

There is some positive news for Barça, however, with left-back Alejandro Balde reportedly nearing a return from his own hamstring issue. While it remains uncertain whether he will be fully fit for the Inter clash, his presence could offer much-needed balance and flexibility to the defense.

Barcelona head into the second leg needing at least a win or high-scoring draw to progress, with the aggregate score tied at 3-3. The absence of Koundé will undoubtedly test the team’s defensive resolve, especially against an Inter side boasting the firepower of Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram.

As the club seeks a return to the Champions League final for the first time since 2015, Koundé’s injury has become a major talking point not just for its tactical impact, but for the mental and physical toll it could have on a Barcelona side chasing glory on multiple fronts.