A promising Barcelona talent faces a challenging three-month absence, testing the club’s depth in a demanding season.
The injury, sustained during a recent match, has forced the club to recalibrate expectations for their attacking ranks, particularly as they juggle a demanding La Liga and Champions League schedule.
The loss of this promising talent, who was beginning to make waves, underscores the challenges of nurturing young stars while maintaining competitive depth.
The player in question is Òscar Gistau, a 17-year-old starlet from Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Gistau, who suffered a knee injury while playing for Barca Atlètic, underwent surgery this week to address damage to his meniscus.
Initial fears suggested a grueling five-month recovery, but updated reports indicate a more optimistic timeline of 10 to 12 weeks, with the external meniscus less severely affected than anticipated.
This prognosis offers hope that the young forward, widely regarded as a future cornerstone in Catalonia, could return by early 2026 to continue his development.
The injury comes at a critical juncture for Barcelona, who are already navigating a string of absences, including Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Gavi.
Gistau’s setback is particularly stinging for Barca Atlètic, where his goal-scoring prowess was starting to shine.
The teenager’s potential has drawn comparisons to La Masia’s finest, with his flair and clinical finishing marking him as a standout.
While the three-month layoff is a blow, the revised timeline provides a silver lining, ensuring he avoids a longer absence that could have disrupted his trajectory.
Barcelona’s medical team will now focus on a careful rehabilitation to prepare Gistau for a seamless return.
As Hansi Flick’s side chases silverware, the club’s faith in their youth pipeline remains unshaken, with Gistau poised to re-emerge as a key piece in their long-term vision.
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