FC Barcelona heads into their next Champions League match with a sigh of relief as several key players inch closer to a return from injury. The Blaugrana suffered a blow in the group stages with a string of important players side-lined, but the tide seems to be turning. Let’s look at which injured stars are likely to make a comeback and bolster Barcelona’s chances in Europe’s elite competition.
Midfield Trio Set for Return: A Spark in the Engine Room
Barcelona’s midfield has been a major concern in recent weeks. The absence of young sensations Pedri and Gavi, alongside the experienced Frenkie de Jong, has stifled their creativity and control in the centre of the park. However, there’s positive news on this front.
- Gavi: Talented youngster Gavi suffered a cruciate ligament tear in November, initially expected to be out for a significant period. However, his recovery has been faster than anticipated, and reports suggest he could be back in action as early as late June. While this means he’ll miss the upcoming Champions League match, his return for the potential semi-finals is a huge boost for Barcelona.
- Pedri: Another young prodigy, Pedri, also picked up a knee injury in February, but unlike Gavi, he’s expected to return much sooner. Recent reports indicate he could be available for selection as early as the next Champions League clash. Pedri’s return will be a welcome addition, bringing his energy, tackling prowess, and ability to break lines back to the midfield.
- Frenkie de Jong: The experienced Dutch maestro, Frenkie de Jong, has been another absentee due to a muscle strain. Thankfully, his recovery seems to be on track, and he’s expected to be back in contention for the upcoming Champions League match. De Jong’s return will provide much-needed stability and composure in the midfield, allowing Barcelona to control the tempo of the game.
Attacking Options Get a Shot in the Arm
Barcelona’s attack has also been affected by injuries. While Robert Lewandowski has been carrying the scoring burden admirably, the absence of pace and creativity on the wings has been evident.
- Ferran Torres: Signed with much fanfare in January, Ferran Torres’ impact has been limited due to a hamstring injury. Initial predictions suggested a five-week recovery period, but unfortunately, his return has been delayed. While his availability for the next Champions League match seems unlikely, Torres’ return soon after will provide a much-needed attacking boost.
- Marcos Alonso: Left-back Marcos Alonso is another player nearing a return. After missing recent games due to a muscle issue, he’s been back in training for almost a week and could be included in the squad for the upcoming Champions League fixture. Alonso’s return provides depth and experience in defense, allowing Joao Cancelo to push forward more freely.
Looking Ahead: A Crucial Time for Barcelona
Looking Ahead: A Crucial Time for Barcelona
The return of these key players comes at a pivotal moment for Barcelona. With the Champions League and La Liga titles still within reach, Xavi Hernandez’s side needs all hands on deck. The experience and talent of these returning players will significantly improve Barcelona’s chances of success on both fronts.
While some players like Pedri might miss the upcoming Champions League match, their return for the later stages is a positive sign. The immediate return of Pedri, de Jong, and potentially Alonso will provide a much-needed shot in the arm for Barcelona’s midfield and defence. With these players back in the fold, Barcelona can approach their upcoming Champions League fixture with renewed optimism.
Related Articles: Barcelona Vs Napoli Match Highlights