For Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo, it has likely felt like a lifetime since he last played football at the Copa America in the summer.
While there have been mixed reports on when the Uruguyan may make a return to action, it is now looking as though it will be at some point this week.
As per Diario AS, the centre-back is set to be named on the bench as Barça travel to Germany to take on Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
Whether the 25-year-old features or not is a different matter, as it looks far more likely that Araújo could feature at the weekend against Leganes.
The defensive reinforcement that comes with the return of Araújo couldn’t come at a better time for Hansi Flick and Barcelona, as the club has conceded seven goals in their last five games, keeping only one clean sheet.
Araújo made 21 starts out of 25 appearances in La Liga last year, so it is fair to say that his presence in the squad has been sorely missed. His return has been timed perfectly for the busy December schedule.
GSFN | Ciaran Currie