Barcelona Hit by Another Injury Setback as Ferran Torres Withdraws from Spain Squad Ahead of World Cup Qualifier
Story: written uzuh Rita October 13,2025
Barcelona have been dealt yet another injury setback after Ferran Torres pulled out of the Spain national team ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifying clash with Bulgaria on Tuesday night.
Torres featured for the full 90 minutes in Spain’s 2–0 victory over Georgia on Saturday but complained of muscular discomfort after the match. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) confirmed his withdrawal on Monday morning, citing medical advice to avoid further risk.
“Ferran Torres has been released from the squad for the fourth World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria in Valladolid,” the RFEF said in an official statement.
“Following evaluation by medical staff, he has been diagnosed with a muscle overload, though no structural damage was found. In line with our policy of prioritizing player health, he will not feature against Bulgaria.”
The Barcelona forward’s latest setback adds to a growing list of injuries affecting both Spain and his club side. La Roja are already missing key players such as Dani Carvajal, Rodri, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, Dean Huijsen, Lamine Yamal, and Nico Williams.
Barcelona, too, are battling a serious injury crisis in attack, with Raphinha, Olmo, Fermin, Gavi, and Yamal all sidelined in recent weeks. Reports suggest that Raphinha, Fermin, and Yamal may return against Girona this weekend, but they are unlikely to start.
Barcelona’s attacking dilemma ahead of Girona clash
The defending La Liga champions will be desperate to respond after a disappointing 4–1 defeat to Sevilla, but manager Hansi Flick faces limited options up front.
Robert Lewandowski and Marcus Rashford are expected to lead the attack, while promising youngster Roony Bardghji could be handed a rare start.
Flick is also planning to ease Yamal back into the squad gradually, with the teenager set to feature from the bench after recovering from a groin issue.
As Barcelona prepare for the Catalan derby against Girona, their mounting injury list continues to test their squad depth — leaving Flick with little room for error as the title race heats up
