Additional concerning injury news for Barcelona: What is happening with Andreas Christensen and when will he return?

Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen finds himself at a critical crossroads in his career, as injuries and setbacks have overshadowed his promising stint at the Catalan club. The Danish international, once a key figure in the Blaugrana backline, now faces uncertainty about his future, with whispers of a potential exit growing louder.

Christensen’s season began on an unfortunate note. After making a single substitute appearance in Barcelona’s 2024-25 campaign opener against Valencia, he was sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury. Initial estimates suggested he would return by December, but his recovery has been far from straightforward. According to Catalunya Radio, the Dane required a second surgery and is now undergoing cellular regenerative therapy on both Achilles tendons, a procedure designed to address persistent issues.

This additional treatment has delayed his comeback further, pushing his potential return to late January 2025. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, grappling with defensive shortages this season, will need to wait at least two more months before the 28-year-old is match-ready.

The club’s defensive unit has struggled with injuries throughout the season. Ronald Araujo, another cornerstone of their defense, has also been sidelined due to a hamstring injury suffered in July. While the Uruguayan is expected to return within weeks, Christensen’s absence continues to leave a significant void.

For Christensen, the setbacks have had ramifications beyond the pitch. In his absence, Inigo Martinez has risen in prominence under Flick, effectively relegating Christensen to the fringes of the squad. The club’s intent to sign a new center-back next summer further dims his prospects of regaining a starting role.

Mystery of Christensen’s future

The mystery surrounding Christensen’s future is not limited to his recovery timeline. With Barcelona planning to refresh their defensive lineup, Christensen appears to be the player most likely to make way. Despite his contract running until 2026, Barcelona is reportedly open to selling him in 2025, either during the January transfer window or next summer.

Relevo suggests that interest from several Premier League clubs could pave the way for his departure. However, his delayed recovery complicates matters, making a January move increasingly unlikely. Instead, the club may need to reevaluate its strategy, especially if the defender’s performances upon his return fail to attract lucrative offers.

What lies ahead?

While the 28-year-old’s situation raises questions, Barcelona remains optimistic about his recovery. His cellular regenerative therapy is a crucial step aimed at resolving the chronic issues that have plagued him. If successful, the Danish defender could still make a meaningful contribution to the Catalans’ second half of the season—potentially boosting his value ahead of a summer move.

The challenges ahead are clear for both Christensen and Barcelona. The player must regain fitness and form quickly to reassert himself in a competitive defensive unit. For the club, balancing short-term defensive needs with long-term planning remains a complex puzzle.