Barcelona Loses Balde for Copa del Rey Final, Lewandowski Uncertain for Key Matches

Barcelona will face Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final without two key players, as both Robert Lewandowski and Alejandro Balde have suffered hamstring injuries. Lewandowski was injured during a recent LaLiga victory over Celta Vigo, raising concerns due to his vital scoring form and the team's lack of a direct replacement ahead of crucial matches, including Champions League semifinals against Inter Milan. Balde, the starting left-back, will also miss the final after failing to recover from his injury endured against Leganes, though the club hopes he may be fit for the upcoming Champions League fixture. Gerard Martin or Hector Fort are expected to fill in for Balde, with Fort recently impressing in a league win. The loss of these starters is seen as a significant blow for Barça during a period when they are competing for multiple titles. Coach Hansi Flick now faces tough decisions in managing the squad through this challenging run.