Barcelona have been handed a massive double boost with two key first-team stars cleared to return from injury.
With the season’s grueling schedule intensifying—balancing domestic dominance against Champions League ambitions—the Blaugrana cannot afford slip-ups, especially as injuries have tested their depth in recent weeks, forcing improvisations across midfield and attack that exposed vulnerabilities despite gritty results.
Yet, in a timely twist ahead of this pivotal encounter, the team has been handed a major double fitness boost, as two key stars sidelined for the last two matches have roared back into training, injecting fresh energy and options into Flick’s rotation plans just when squad harmony matters most.
The players in question are Fermin Lopez and Frenkie de Jong, both sidelined due to injury and personal reasons, respectively, resumed full training with the squad, as reported by Diario Sport.
Fermin Lopez had been out for two matches due to a soleus injury sustained in the game against Athletic Club.
His recovery has progressed rapidly, shortening an expected two-week absence, and he was able to complete parts of the training session with the group.
While his full return might be targeted for the upcoming Champions League match against Eintracht Frankfurt, he is a strong candidate to feature against Real Betis.
Frenkie de Jong missed games against Alaves and Atlético Madrid, initially due to personal reasons and later a fever.
He was also suspended for a previous match and thus has yet to play in the renovated Spotify Camp Nou this season.
Now fully recovered and back in training early, De Jong is expected to be available for the Betis encounter, bolstering Barcelona’s midfield options.
The availability of Fermin Lopez and Frenkie de Jong could prove decisive as Barcelona seeks to extend its grip at the top of the table and continue its pursuit of domestic and European success this season.
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