Barcelona’s preparations for another high-stakes week in La Liga have unfolded under intense scrutiny, with Hansi Flick continuing to manage a squad stretched by injuries, illness, and a punishing schedule.
The team’s recent performances have highlighted both resilience and fragility, as youngsters have been asked to shoulder major responsibility while senior figures recover or work back to fitness.
With Atletico Madrid looming, Barca’s training sessions have focused heavily on restoring rhythm, tightening transitions, and maintaining composure under pressure.
The coaching staff remain cautious about player workloads, especially after several setbacks throughout November.
Supporters, meanwhile, have voiced optimism that returning players could offer stability in a period defined by constant adaptation.
Only after that cautious optimism began to build did mixed news emerge ahead of Tuesday’s meeting with Atletico Madrid.
Frenkie de Jong, who withdrew at the last minute before the Deportivo Alaves clash due to personal reasons, has now returned to training and is expected to feature against Diego Simeone’s side, as reported by AS.
The Dutch midfielder arrived at the Ciutat Esportiva on Monday morning and completed the session without any issues, providing a timely boost for Flick, who was forced to rely on an inexperienced pairing of Marc Casado and Marc Bernal in his absence.
However, while Frenkie de Jong is back in the fold, Barcelona will once again be without Ronald Araujo.
The Uruguayan defender missed the Alaves match due to a stomach virus and has still not reappeared at the training ground, effectively ruling him out for Tuesday’s showdown.
The club maintains he is recovering, though the emotional impact of his red card against Chelsea has also been noted, with Barça using the opportunity to shield him during a difficult spell.
Araujo is expected to return for Saturday’s fixture against Real Betis at Estadio La Cartuja, offering hope that the setback will be brief.
Alongside Araujo, Barcelona will remain without Gavi, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Fermin Lopez for the Atletico clash, forcing Flick to once again adjust his plans.
The absences place added pressure on the midfield and defensive structure, particularly against a physically intense opponent known for exploiting weakened sides.
Despite the disruptions, Flick has maintained confidence in the group’s adaptability, and De Jong’s return could provide vital balance in a game that may hinge on control and composure in central areas.
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