RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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Barcelona defender chasing key milestone ahead of Athletic Club clash
Andreas Christensen was one of Barcelona’s unsung heroes in their 5-0 win over Elche CF in the opening game.
It was the first time the Dane had managed to play the full ninety minutes since September 28, as he started alongside Gerard Martin in central defence.
Christensen kept things tidy at the back, and his timely resurgence is sure to serve as a massive boost for Hansi Flick.
Christensen chasing a key milestone
Now, the Dane will set his sights on earning yet another start when Barcelona take on Athletic Club in their next La Liga encounter.
As reported by Mundo Deportivo , Christensen is just one match away from reaching 100 competitive appearances for Barcelona.
Christensen faces a key season ahead. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
In fact, should he feature against Athletic on Thursday, even for a few minutes, he will join the club’s exclusive list of centurions.
Since arriving on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2022, Christensen has racked up 99 official appearances, scoring five goals and providing three assists.
His time at the club has been split between reliable, composed displays when fit and lengthy spells on the sidelines through injury.
His finest period came in 2023-24 under Xavi, when he played 42 matches and was even deployed in midfield at times, taking advantage of his composure on the ball.
An Achilles injury the following season, however, cost him almost the entire campaign.
Will Christensen start vs Athletic Club?
The big question now is whether Flick will hand Christensen another start at San Mames.
Christensen may once again start in the next game. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)
Given his impressive showing against Elche and Barcelona’s ongoing issues at centre-back, the Dane looks well placed to retain his spot.
With Ronald Araujo having left for Liverpool, and Pau Cubarsi still being eased back gradually after a demanding World Cup, Flick has every reason to keep faith in his experienced defender.
Christensen has openly stated his goal is to rediscover his best form and, crucially, remain available for the entire season.
Flick, for his part, has been a firm believer in the Dane’s qualities, extending his contract until 2028 despite concerns over his fitness record.
Should he start and reach his century against Athletic, it would cap a remarkable turnaround for a player who, not long ago, was linked with a move away.
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