Injury blow for Barcelona as star forward set to miss Napoli UCl tie
i

Joao Felix, Robert Lewandowski, Raphael Dias Belloli Raphinha and Ilkay Gundogan of FC Barcelona || Image credit: Imago

Injury blow for Barcelona as star forward set to miss Napoli UCl tie

Faruq Ibrahim 21:58 - 31.01.2024

Barcelona's injury woes continue, as they are set to miss Portugal international Joao Felix for the trip to Naples in the Champions League.

Barcelona's hopes for the first leg of their Champions League tie against Napoli have been dealt a blow with the news of Joao Felix's ankle injury sidelining him for around a month. 

The setback means the Atletico Madrid loanee is likely to miss the crucial encounter at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 21.

Barcelona's Injury Woes Deepen

The announcement of Felix's injury adds to Barcelona's recent woes, following a turbulent period for the Catalan giants. After suffering a 5-3 defeat against Villarreal, coach Xavi declared his intention to step down at the end of the season. 

Felix's absence compounds Barcelona's challenges, as he joins a growing list of key players currently sidelined, including Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Alejandro Balde, Gavi, and Raphinha.

Barcelona's Joao Felix | Imago
Barcelona's Joao Felix | Imago

According to ESPN, Barcelona expect Felix to be out for around a month, impacting his availability for critical fixtures, including the Champions League clash with Napoli. 

Felix, who is Barcelona's joint top scorer in the Champions League this season with three goals in four games, will be sorely missed as Xavi's side look to navigate through the knockout stages.

Xavi's team faces Osasuna next, with hopes of regaining momentum following recent defeats to Athletic Club and Villarreal. Currently sitting fourth in La Liga, Barcelona aim to close the gap on league leaders Girona and secure a positive result to carry into their Champions League campaign.

Related content