FC Barcelona receives a major boost as a key forward returns from injury for their UEFA Champions League clash against Olympiacos.
Hansi Flick, navigating an injury crisis, leads a squad reliant on youth as El Clasico looms on October 26.
The latest squad announcement, ahead of this crucial European clash, brings a boost with a key attacker’s return, but a defensive absence adds pressure to a team striving for consistency in a packed schedule.
Ferran Torres is back after missing the Girona match due to muscle overload, receiving medical clearance despite limited group training, as per the official squad list of FC Barcelona.
Andreas Christensen, however, is ruled out with a gastrointestinal illness, having skipped Monday’s session.
Fermin Lopez also returns after missing the PSG Champions League game, potentially starting, while Gavi, Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, Raphinha, Joan Garcia, and Marc-André ter Stegen remain sidelined.
Youngsters Xavi Espart, Juan Hernandez, Roony Bardghji, Pedro Fernandez Dro, and Toni Fernandez are called up.
Torres’s return, with three goals this season, strengthens an attack led by Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford, vital against Olympiacos’s physicality, as warned by their veteran Dani Garcia.
Christensen’s absence strains a backline of Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsí, Jules Koundé, and Gerard Martin, exposed by Girona’s counters.
Flick’s 4-3-3, with Eric Garcia in midfield alongside Frenkie de Jong and Marc Casado, aims to control the game, with Lopez as a false nine.
Barcelona’s €380m Spotify deal supports their ambition, but injuries test their depth.
Hansi Flick, not suspended for Champions League action despite his Girona red card, faces pressure to tighten defending and sharpen finishing.
A win could propel their European campaign, with Torres’s comeback offering hope.
As El Clasico nears, this match tests Barcelona’s resilience, blending La Masia promise with veteran grit to maintain momentum in a season-defining week.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
