Alvaro Cortes to get first team chance? Hansi Flick calls up Barcelona Atletic captain after Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde injuries

BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 22: Alvaro Cortes of FC Barcelona Atletic with the ball during the Segunda RFEF G3 match between FC Barcelona Atletic and CD Castellon B at Estadi Johan Cruyff on September 22, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images) | Getty Images Alvaro Cortes ha

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Alvaro Cortes has become the latest Barcelona Atletic star

called up to first-team training in the wake of injuries to Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde.

Hansi Flick took a check on Xavi Espart and Patricio Pacifico on Wednesday and has now given Cortes the chance to impress ahead of Saturday’s clash against Athletic Club.

It’s a great chance for Cortes and there’s a chance he could make the squad for the trip to the Basque Country for Saturday night’s La

Liga clash with Athletic Club.

Flick does have Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín and Joao Cancelo available for the game but is short of back-up options due to the club’s injury situation.

The German coach will also be praying his team does not suffer any more injuries to the backline ahead of their Champions League last 16 first leg against Newcastle next week at St James’ Park.