Two key Barcelona stars are on the verge of returning to full fitness, offering a much-needed boost as the team aims to rebound from a disheartening Champions League defeat to Chelsea.
Hansi Flick has promised a transformed squad in the coming months, emphasizing resilience despite recent setbacks that exposed vulnerabilities in every department.
With a grueling schedule ahead—including clashes against Real Betis, Villarreal, Atletico Madrid, and Eintracht Frankfurt—the coaching staff is pinning hopes on these recoveries to restore balance, creativity, and pressing intensity in the lineup.
The optimism stems from the belief that overcoming injury woes, which have plagued the campaign with up to seven absences, will propel Barcelona forward in their quest to reclaim the La Liga summit, where they trail Real Madrid by just one point.
The pivotal duo comprises Raphinha and Pedri, both showing promising signs after extended absences, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Raphinha, sidelined for two months, made substitute appearances against Athletic Club and Chelsea, positioning him for a potential start against Deportivo Alaves this weekend and full involvement against Atletico midweek.
His role in spearheading the high press is deemed essential by Flick.
Pedri, meanwhile, is set to rejoin full training today and enter the squad list for Saturday, bringing his masterful playmaking and possession control back to the midfield.
Despite the 3-0 loss at Stamford Bridge—exacerbated by Ronald Araujo’s red card and a missed early chance from Ferran Torres—the dressing room remains upbeat.
They view the result as an anomaly, confident that full fitness across the squad will unlock improvements.
Barcelona’s immediate target is overtaking Real Madrid with two straight home games, capitalizing on recent form to solidify their La Liga title defense.
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