Bad news hits FC Barcelona as Andreas Christensen suffers yet another injury setback. Just weeks after returning from a four-month layoff due to an Achilles tendon issue, the Danish defender faces fresh concerns, raising questions about his future at the club.

A New Injury Adds to Christensen's Struggles

Barcelona confirmed that Christensen has sustained a soleus muscle injury in his right leg during training ahead of the Champions League clash against Atalanta. The club estimates his recovery period to be around three weeks.

The official statement reads:
"First-team player Andreas Christensen suffered an injury to the soleus muscle in his right leg during Monday's training session. He is expected to be out for approximately three weeks."

Limited Opportunities Under Flick

This injury comes amid an already difficult situation for Christensen. Despite being available for Barcelona’s last three matches, head coach Hansi Flick has yet to give him any playing time. Even in a comfortable 7-1 win against Valencia, Christensen remained on the bench. Currently, the Dane appears to be the fifth-choice center-back, behind Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, Eric García, and Iñigo Martínez.

With Barcelona entering a critical phase of the season, it’s unclear how Christensen can regain form and confidence while struggling for minutes.

Brentford Offers an Escape Route

Reports from The Independent suggest that Brentford, under Danish coach Thomas Frank, is interested in Christensen. The Premier League side is pushing for a loan or permanent deal, believing they can help the defender recover physically and thrive in a familiar environment surrounded by fellow Danes.

A move to Brentford could benefit both parties. For Christensen, it offers a chance to rebuild his career and earn consistent playing time ahead of the summer’s European Championship. For Barcelona, it would free up salary space, potentially enabling a late-market move for Marcus Rashford.

Future Uncertainty

Christensen’s current contract runs until June 2026, but Barcelona has not initiated discussions about an extension since signing him as a free agent in 2022. His lack of impact, coupled with recurring injuries, raises doubts about his long-term place at the club.

Games Christensen Will Miss

If Christensen remains with Barcelona past the January transfer window deadline on February 2, he is expected to miss at least five key matches. These include:

• Atalanta (Champions League)
• Alavés (La Liga)
• Valencia (Copa del Rey)
• Sevilla (La Liga)
• Rayo Vallecano (La Liga)

He could potentially return against Las Palmas on February 22, provided his recovery goes as planned.

A Pivotal Period for Player and Club

Christensen’s ongoing struggles highlight the challenges faced by both the player and Barcelona. Whether he stays or departs, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the trajectory of his career and the club’s plans for the remainder of the season.