D-14 before the Clasico. FC Barcelona is preparing to face Real Madrid for the first time this season, on October 26 for the tenth day in La Liga. A crucial meeting for Hansi Flick's men, second, for the title race. But two weeks before the long-awaited shock, the situation is far from ideal for the Catalan club, undermined by a cascade of injuries.
The Blaugrana infirmary is always full. Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Fermín López, Raphinha and even goalkeeper Joan Garcia are all doubtful. A hard blow for Flick, forced to juggle between injuries and gradual returns, while the schedule promises to be busy, between championship, Champions League and international break.
Hit in the left knee and operated on the meniscus on September 27, Joan Garcia continues her convalescence. The Spanish goalkeeper gave reassuring news, while confirming that his return would not take place before the Clasico. “Recovery is going very well”he confided to Movistar. He hopes for a return “in a month, more or less”if progress continues at the same pace.
Olmo and Pedri, too fair
Another major concern: Dani Olmo. Already often injured this season, the Spanish international relapsed in training with La Roja. Examinations revealed a calf injury which could keep him away from the field for several weeks. According to
Mundo Deportivohis participation in the Clasico is very uncertain, a new blow for Barça.
Finally, the Pedri case is also worrying. Over-used for several seasons, the Spanish midfielder is showing signs of fatigue, according to information from the same media. The selection staff and that of Barça will have to manage their playing time carefully to avoid a relapse. Two weeks before the Clasico, Hansi Flick sees his options dwindling to nothing.
