Barcelona welcomed Ronald Araujo back into the squad today for their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund tomorrow.
Next up, the Blaugrana will face off against Leganes in La Liga over the weekend and could be boosted by another injured player’s return.
Ansu Fati set to come back vs Leganes
Indeed, according to SPORT, Ansu Fati is almost ready to return to the Barcelona matchday squad this week after recovering from a right hamstring injury.
Following a month-long absence, the Blaugrana academy graduate will gradually reintegrate into the squad and will be medically cleared this week to play against Leganes later this weekend.
It has been another injury-riddled campaign for Ansu, for he missed a good part of the start of the season due to a foot injury.
Having struggled for minutes upon his return, the forward once again fell prey to a fresh hamstring issue. Now closing in on a comeback, the 22-year-old could be back in action vs Leganes.
Future uncertain
Exit-bound in January? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
However, the upcoming few games could very well be the final opportunity for Ansu Fati to impress Barcelona coach Hansi Flick.
The young forward may see some minutes before the end of the year, or in the Copa del Rey match against Barbastro in early January.
From that point on, depending on his performance and overall situation, Barça will hold a meeting with his representatives in January to determine the best course of action regarding his future.
Ansu is determined not to give up, but he is also well aware that his opportunities at Barcelona will be very limited.
Flick opted to retain him in the summer stay, wanting to assess his performance. However, the German coach has now opened the door for a move in January, with the aim of allowing Ansu to regain match fitness at another club.
The situation may also depend on the offers available to Ansu. Sevilla are interested, although there are concerns at the Andalusian club about his physical condition. Meanwhile, his agent, Jorge Mendes, is exploring other options.
Barcelona have been honest with Ansu, giving him the freedom to decide whether to stay or leave, though it will ultimately be the player’s decision.