Villarreal striker Thierno Barry is set to miss this weekend’s La Liga clash against Girona due to a hamstring injury, casting doubt over his availability for the remainder of the season.
The Guinean forward has been ruled out of Saturday’s fixture at the Estadi de Montilivi after sustaining muscular discomfort during last weekend’s match.
Barry was absent from the squad’s final training session on Friday morning at the Ciutat Esportiva de Miralcamp, with club medical staff continuing to monitor his condition closely.
Manager Marcelino García Toral declined to confirm the extent of the injury during his pre-match press conference, telling reporters that further medical examinations were expected in the coming hours.
However, the uncertainty surrounding Barry’s fitness has sparked concern that his season may be prematurely over, with only three league fixtures remaining.
Barry, who joined Villarreal with high expectations, has been gradually integrated into the first team under Marcelino’s stewardship.
His recent performances have begun to reflect the promise that brought him to the Estadio de la Cerámica, adding valuable depth to the club’s attacking options.
His absence comes at a time when Villarreal are fighting to maintain momentum in the closing stages of the campaign.
As Villarreal prepare to take on fourth-placed Girona on Saturday evening, the striker’s injury leaves a notable void in the squad.
With the team still harbouring hopes of a late push towards European qualification, any loss of firepower could prove costly in a league where margins are tight.
No official timeline has been given for Barry’s return, and the club has yet to issue a formal update on the nature or severity of his condition.
Local media sources suggest that the likelihood of him featuring again this season remains uncertain, depending on the outcome of forthcoming medical evaluations.
While the setback to Barry poses a challenge for Marcelino’s side, the team has received a boost from the return of Tajon Buchanan.
The Canadian international, who was rested during Thursday’s session, has resumed full training and is expected to be available for selection against Girona.
Buchanan’s return adds a measure of stability to the squad as they aim to secure a positive result against one of this season’s standout performers.
Girona, currently sitting fourth in the table, will pose a significant test for Villarreal, particularly in the absence of Barry.
With three matches left to play, every point is crucial as the Yellow Submarine seek to end their campaign on a high note and potentially challenge for a European spot.
The coming days will be decisive in determining whether Barry can recover in time to contribute again before the end of the season.
Until then, Villarreal will need to find alternative solutions in attack as they navigate a pivotal stage in their La Liga journey.
