Hamza's situation? Flick announces Barcelona squad for Paris clash

Eric and Kounde's exit

Barcelona have been dealt a heavy blow before their meeting with Paris Saint-Germain. Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia will both miss the trip to the French capital ahead of the eagerly awaited Champions League clash, leaving the backline stripped of several key men.

Spanish newspaper "Marca" report that Hansi Flick cannot call upon the pair against Luis Enrique's side, with Kounde nursing a sprained knee and Eric Garcia carrying an injury that will keep him out for around a month.

Kounde's name had even appeared on the initial travelling list before his absence was confirmed. Add in Eric Garcia, plus the continued absences of Andreas Christensen and Ronny, and Flick's job of piecing together a defence gets harder still.

Barcelona travel to Paris amid a defensive crisis

The squad fly out on Monday morning and will train in the afternoon, preparing for a fixture that represents an important test for the Catalans in the Champions League.

Getting home from Seville proved a struggle in itself. A storm delayed the team's arrival and cut into the time the players had to recover and prepare for the European tie.

Hamza joins the Barcelona squad

Egyptian forward Hamza comes into the group after featuring for the reserve side on Saturday, the coaching staff having handed him minutes given how little he has played with the first team.

He started against Utebo and scored the opening goal. That strike has earned him a fresh opportunity in the coaching staff's plans before the European encounter.

Barcelona's squad for the Paris clash

Goalkeepers: Joan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, Dominik Livakovic

Defence: Joao Cancelo, Alejandro Balde, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Xavi Espart

Midfield: Brian Farinas, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo, Marc Bernal, Rodri

Attack: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Gabriel Jesus, Karim Adeyemi, Anthony Gordon