Andreas Christensen withdraws from Denmark squad after admitting he is ‘not ready’

Andreas Christensen has withdrawn from Denmark’s squad for the current international break after deciding he is not yet ready to play at the highest level.

The Barcelona defender returned to action on Sunday in the La Liga match against Atletico Madrid, playing 30 minutes at the Metropolitano. It was his first appearance for more than a month and a half after recovering from a muscle injury to the rectus femoris in his left thigh.

However, the 30-year-old chose not to risk a full return, having endured repeated injury problems in recent seasons. Denmark manager Brian Riemer said Christensen made the decision himself, despite being reluctant to miss the international matches.

“He felt that he was not ready, so he had to decline the invitation,” Riemer told Tipsbladet. “With the physical condition he is in at the moment, he does not feel ready to play international football.”

Riemer said Christensen’s withdrawal was particularly difficult for the player because of his strong attachment to Denmark.

“He loves the Denmark national team,” said Riemer. “He sounded like a man on the verge of tears when I spoke to him on the phone last night, because he is extremely frustrated and upset about the situation.”

Although the decision came from the Barcelona centre-back, Riemer said he understood why Christensen had taken it and believed his comeback needed to be managed carefully.

“Even if he could sit on the bench and play for five minutes, he still has a long way to go before he can play 90 minutes and compete at the highest level,” the Denmark manager added.

Riemer remains hopeful Christensen will be available for the next international break in March. The defender’s extensive injury record has not changed his status within the Denmark set-up.

“We are just as interested in making sure he is ready in March,” Riemer said.

Christensen’s recent injury problems

Christensen, who renewed his Barcelona contract a few months ago for a further two seasons, has missed seven matches during the current campaign because of injury.

Last season, he was unavailable for 36 matches for Barcelona and Denmark as a result of various injuries and physical problems, including a torn cruciate ligament.

During the 2024-2025 season, Christensen missed 50 matches because of Achilles tendon problems and a muscle injury. His latest absence comes despite his return to the Barcelona team against Atletico Madrid, as he continues to rebuild his fitness following another extended spell on the sidelines.