Alvaro Cortés handed surprise first-team audition as Barcelona’s injury crisis deepens

Barcelona, Spain – Barcelona Atlètic captain Álvaro Cortés has been promoted to first-team training by head coach Hansi Flick after injuries to Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé left the senior squad short on defensive cover. The 19-year-old full-back, who has skippered the club’s reserve side this season, received the call on Thursday and could now force his way into the match-day squad for Saturday night’s La Liga trip to Athletic Club at San Mamés.

Flick, who earlier this week assessed reserve options Xavi Espart and Patricio Pacifico, turned to Cortés as a potential solution to an escalating back-line shortage. While Ronald Araújo, Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín and João Cancelo remain available, the German coach is wary of further setbacks with a Champions League last-16 first leg against Newcastle United looming next Tuesday at St James’ Park.

Club sources indicate Cortés impressed during his initial session with the first team, offering versatility on both flanks and a mature reading of the game honed during his captaincy of the B side. His former youth coach has already briefed Flick’s staff on the teenager’s attributes, and senior players have reportedly welcomed the injection of fresh energy.

Should Cortés earn a place in the travelling party, he would become the latest La Masia graduate to benefit from Barcelona’s policy of fast-tracking talent amid an injury list that shows no sign of shortening. Kick-off in Bilbao is scheduled for 21:00 CET on Saturday.