Barcelona star confirmed out of today’s Clasico

Barcelona defender Jules Koundé will miss Sunday’s El Clásico showdown against arch-rivals Real Madrid after failing to recover from an ankle injury in time, according to a report by Get Football News Spain.

​The French international sustained the injury last weekend during Barcelona’s victory over Real Betis. Koundé subsequently missed the midweek European fixture against Paris Saint-Germain.

Although the club initially hoped he might heal in time to assist a depleted defensive line, manager Hansi Flick ruled him out during Saturday’s media conference. ​

Speaking to the press, Flick explained the decision to keep the stopper sidelined: ​“Jules Koundé will miss El Clásico. We don’t want to take any risks with him.” ​Barcelona will now be forced to reshuffle their backline for the pivotal league encounter.