International break horror – How Barcelona have been affected by the FIFA virus in recent past

Barcelona are currently facing a significant challenge due to the consequences of international matches, which have resulted in a worrying pattern of injuries among their players. 

To put things in perspective, over the last 14 international breaks, the club has endured a staggering total of 14 injuries—an average of one injury per break. This statistic is alarming and highlights the need for a closer examination of the situation.

In recent weeks, Barcelona have adopted a cautious approach regarding their international players. Despite their precautions, they have not been able to escape the injury woes. 

Key players, including Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski, returned from international duty with injuries, adding to the club’s growing list of casualties. 

This trend has raised concerns within the club and among supporters, prompting discussions about the risks associated with allowing players to participate in international fixtures.

A statistic that does not make sense

Robert Lewandowski was not completely fit against Croatia. (Photo by Rafal Oleksiewicz/Getty Images)

Luis de la Fuente, the Spanish national team coach, has not accepted responsibility for these injuries. He has pointed to statistics that suggest not every player is affected equally by international duty. 

However, this response has not quelled the rising frustration surrounding the increasing imbalance between club and international football. 

Many within the football community are beginning to argue for a separation between club competitions and international matches, suggesting that national team duties should take place only after the conclusion of club seasons.

Problematic for Barcelona

This issue is particularly pressing for Barcelona as they go through a congested schedule filled with Champions League fixtures, the Spanish Super Cup, and the newly introduced Club World Cup, alongside the Nations League. 

Furthermore, the notion of a strike by players to address these concerns has even surfaced in discussions, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Ronald Araujo has not played once for Barcelona this season. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)

The string of injuries in recent international breaks is nothing short of concerning. Yamal’s recent hamstring overload during training with the Spanish national team is just the latest example. 

Before him, Fermin Lopez sustained an injury during the U21 training session in September, and Pedri was another casualty during the European Championship, with Ronald Araujo facing similar misfortune in the Copa America. 

One of the most shocking incidents occurred in November 2023 when Gavi suffered a devastating injury in a friendly match against Georgia. 

After receiving a blow to his knee, rather than being substituted to prevent further damage, he was allowed to continue playing, ultimately leading to a complete tear of his anterior cruciate ligament. 

Looking back at the trend

Gavi has been absent since 2023. (Photo by CESAR MANSO/AFP via Getty Images)

Interestingly, the problem of injuries in international play is not new. It dates back to previous tournaments, including Euro 2021, where players like Pedri were overworked by participating in both the European Championship and the Olympics back-to-back. 

The situation worsened during the September 2022 international break, with Jules Kounde, Frenkie de Jong, Memphis Depay, and Ronald Araujo all facing setbacks, with Araujo being particularly unlucky. 

His record includes multiple injuries while representing Uruguay, including hamstring and thigh injuries.

This persistent pattern of injuries is now a significant concern for Barcelona, especially given that a substantial portion of Hansi Flick’s midfield is currently sidelined. 

The club needs to address this issue urgently, as the health and fitness of their players are crucial for their success in both domestic and international competitions.