Barcelona without three key players for Real Madrid clash

This has been a difficult period for FC Barcelona, who have succumbed to back-to-back losses against Manchester United and Almeria respectively.

Barça’s woes have been compounded by injuries as well, and as they gear up for the upcoming Copa Del Rey semifinal contest against arch-rivals Real Madrid, the Catalans are set to miss out on the services of three key players.

The list is led by Robert Lewandowski, who picked up a hamstring injury during the game against Almeria. He has been ruled out on the sidelines for up to two weeks. This could see him miss the first leg against Real Madrid, along with league commitments against Valencia and Athletic Club.

Lewandowski should be back in action for the second leg of the Copa Del Rey semifinal against Real Madrid, but his recovery will determine his return to the pitch.

Meanwhile, other Barcelona players ruled out for the first leg are Ousmane Dembele and Pedri, both of who are nursing injuries and are not yet ready to get back on the pitch.

Dembele has been missing in action since he picked up a hamstring injury at the end of January. He has since missed ten competitive matches for Barcelona, though he is speeding his recovery.

Pedri, meanwhile, is also suffering from a hamstring problem for almost two weeks. He is not expected to be back in action for at least another two weeks, which could serve as a major blow for Xavi Hernandez, as he looks to guide his team to another victory in El Clasico.

On a rare positive for the Barcelona coach, the key trio involving Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo and Raphinha will be ready to start in this game after being rested at the weekend.