Barcelona’s preparations for the return of La Liga football have taken centre stage this week as Hansi Flick attempts to steer his squad through a demanding period.
The Catalan club remain focused on rediscovering rhythm after an inconsistent run of form, with supporters eager to see whether their side can build momentum heading into December.
The Blaugrana are also monitoring the fitness of several key first-team players, hoping to avoid further complications as the schedule intensifies.
With the international break nearly over, attention has quickly shifted back to training, squad availability, and the tactical tweaks Flick is expected to make.
All eyes are now on Barcelona’s next match, one that carries significance both on the pitch and off it.
Only after those developments did the main story emerge, with Barcelona quietly making a key adjustment behind the scenes to reinforce an increasingly fragile position in their squad.
The Catalans face Athletic Club on Saturday, 22 November, in what will be their long-awaited return to the Spotify Camp Nou after more than 900 days away.
Preparation for that emotional occasion has already brought positive news, with Raphinha and Joan Garcia recovering from injury and rejoining the first-team setup.
Pedri is edging closer as well, although the club have opted not to rush him, keeping him out of full group training for now.
However, Barcelona’s optimism has been tempered by a growing right-back crisis.
According to SPORT, Hansi Flick responded by calling up young defender Guillem Victor to first-team training.
The decision comes after Xavi Espart sustained an injury while representing Spain’s U19 side, shortly after he had been training consistently with the senior squad.
Landry Farre was also considered as cover, but the Barca Atletic right-back suffered a knee injury during last Sunday’s derby against Espanyol B.
Farre will undergo medical tests to determine the extent of the injury, but early indications are not encouraging.
As a result, Flick turned to 18-year-old Guillem Victor, brother of former Barcelona forward Pau Victor and currently part of the Juvenil A setup, though he has already made one appearance for Barca Atletic.
Joan Anaya was another option, but with both Espart and Farre unavailable, Anaya is now required for reserve-team duties.
Flick will decide in the coming days whether Guillem remains with the first team ahead of the meeting with Athletic Club.
Young midfielder Tommy Marques was also drafted into senior training as Barcelona continue to lean on academy resources to cope with their injury setbacks.
Despite concerns over Farre, the club’s long-term faith in the teenager is unwavering.
He recently signed a new contract until June 2028, reaffirming Barcelona’s belief in his future, even as he faces what could be another frustrating spell on the sidelines.
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