Ghanaian defender Hafiz Gariba has reportedly emerged as a potential option for Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick following an injury to Andreas Christensen.
The 19-year-old centre-back has impressed with Barça Atlètic at the start of the 2026/27 campaign and is now attracting attention within the senior team setup.
According to Spanish reports, Gariba is being considered as Barcelona assesses their defensive options while Christensen recovers from a left thigh strain.
Barcelona confirmed that Christensen suffered the injury during the 3-1 LaLiga win over Sevilla on September 19 and will be unavailable for the time being, with his recovery expected to determine when he can return.
Gariba has made an encouraging start with Barça Atlètic. He has played every minute in the reserve side’s opening three league matches, helping the team record three consecutive clean sheets, according to reports.
His rise has been rapid since joining Barcelona in 2025. The Ghanaian defender previously developed at the Marcet Soccer Academy in Spain before making the move to the Catalan club.
Gariba enjoyed a strong 2025/26 season with Barcelona’s youth setup and was promoted through the academy ranks. His performances earned him an opportunity to train with Flick’s first team during pre-season.
Gariba was among the Barça Atlètic and Juvenil players training with the senior squad under Flick in July.
The defender also scored Barcelona Atlètic’s goal in their 2-1 defeat to CE Sabadell in the Copa Catalunya final earlier this month.
