Caroline Graham Hansen (31) has sustained an adductor injury in her right thigh, ruling her out of “the upcoming matches” for FC Barcelona as the club chases two more trophies: the Copa de la Reina and the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
The Norwegian winger was instrumental in Barcelona’s 4-2 victory over Bayern Munich, providing a double assist in a brilliant first half. She delivered a pinpoint cross to Salma Paralluelo at the far post, then set up Alexia Putellas for the goal that gave the Blaugrana a 2-1 lead almost immediately. After the break, Ewa Pajor and the two-time Ballon d’Or winner sealed the win, though the German side made it nervy in the closing stages.
Hansen was substituted in the 54th minute despite being one of the standout performers, perhaps already feeling something was off. Coach Romeu brought on Pina, a player who could easily have started given her form and quality, making the change less surprising. In fact, Hansen rarely completes 90 minutes, having done so only twice this year.
Beyond domestic league commitments, Barcelona face a crucial schedule: on May 16, they host Atlético Madrid, a match they are clear favorites to win, but Hansen will not feature as she follows “a recovery plan” aimed at “being available for the Champions League final” on May 23.
The club has made it clear she will not play against Atlético, reserving all her energy for that highly anticipated showdown in Oslo, the capital of her home country. That setting makes an already exciting match even more special for her. The Catalan side will look to redeem themselves after last year’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal and draw inspiration from their 2-0 triumph over Lyon two seasons ago.
**Mentions:** Football, Liga F, Women’s Champions League, Caroline Graham Hansen, FC Barcelona Femení