Flick rules out Koundé for El Clásico and backs Espartó

Koundé ruled out of El Clásico with right ankle sprain suffered against Betis; Espartó to deputise at right-back.

Jules Koundé will miss Barcelona's El Clásico clash against Real Madrid after suffering a severe right ankle sprain during Sunday's match against Betis. The French defender arrived back from Seville visibly limping and has already missed Tuesday's Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain. Manager Hansi Flick confirmed the decision to rest Koundé, saying: "Jules won't play tomorrow, we don't want to risk him, he won't be ready in time but that's something we have to accept."

Xavi Espartó will replace Koundé at right-back after impressing in the PSG fixture, where he scored and effectively contained winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Flick praised the young defender's performance but urged continued development: "Espartó is a professional and performed very well in Paris. He's excellent on both flanks and is an incredible player, but he has room to improve. His performance is good but he must keep growing."

Flick also addressed Dani Olmo's injury, which will sideline the midfielder for at least four weeks across club and international competition.