A surprise in Barcelona's squad against PSG
Bangla Press Desk: Ahead of the crucial Champions League clash against PSG, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has included a surprise addition in his squad. Due to several injuries in the defensive line, he has called up young center-back Alex Campos to the first-team squad for the first time. Meanwhile, Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim has also returned to the squad.
Barcelona will face PSG at the latter's home ground on Tuesday at 1:00 AM (Bangladesh Standard Time). The Catalan club is facing significant concerns regarding its defense heading into this vital encounter.
With Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé, and Eric García sidelined due to injuries, coach Flick has had to look for alternatives—and in this situation, he has placed his trust in the young defender, Campos.
Born in the Spanish town of Aitona, 18-year-old Campos began his footballing journey with Athletic Segre before joining the Barcelona academy in the summer of 2021. He soon began to draw attention through his impressive skills. He made his official debut for Barça Atlètic during the 2026-27 season, quickly securing a spot in the starting lineup and becoming a key member of the defense.
The youngster has been a consistent performer under the guidance of Barça Atlètic coach Juliano Belletti. He was part of the starting XI in last Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Utebo—a win that marked the fifth consecutive triumph for Barcelona’s reserve side, further underscoring the coaching staff's confidence in Campos.
Standing 185 centimeters tall, one of Campos’s primary strengths is his dominance in delivering long passes. He also displays great composure with the ball at his feet, executes precise passing, and excels at initiating attacks from the back. Additionally, the defender has scored one goal via a header this season. Campos had previously been given opportunities to work with the first team; Flick first called him up to senior squad training in October 2024. Subsequently, in July 2025, Barcelona announced a new contract for him, running until 2029, with an option to extend the deal by an additional year.
With several key defensive players unavailable, Barcelona faces a stern test against PSG. In these circumstances, young Alex Campos has an opportunity to prove his capabilities on the major European stage. It remains to be seen how well he can repay the trust Flick has placed in him.
BP/TD
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Messi has set a record, achieving something that has never happened before in history.
Martinez in hospital with a serious head injury—how is he doing now?
Sangeet Academy