Injury update: Barcelona set to receive huge fitness boost with the return of three key players

Barcelona began the new year on a positive note with a narrow 1-0 win over RCD Mallorca on Sunday night. It was a big result for the Catalans considering the number of absentees they had for the contest due to injuries and Covid-related issues.

Xavi Hernandez’s side will next be in action on Wednesday when they take on lower league outfit Linares in the Copa del Rey. And leading up to that game, Barcelona could be set to welcome back three of their injured stars.

Indeed, SPORT’s Toni Juanmarti is reporting that the trio of Memphis Depay, Ansu Fati and Pedri are back in training with the rest of the group and could make the squad for the cup tie later this week. This will be a huge boost for Barcelona, especially in light of the recent Covid outbreak that has sidelined several key players.

Pedri has been out sidelined with a muscle problem for over three months now, last playing in late September last year. The 19-year-old prodigy has featured just four times this term and his return would be crucial for Barça as they look to continue their push for a top-four finish.

Ansu Fati, meanwhile, has not featured since early November when he picked up a hamstring issue against Celta Vigo. It has been a stop-start season for the winger, who did show signs of form when fit and playing, scoring four goals in eight games. His return to action will be huge for the Catalans.

Finally, Depay has been out of action since early December, missing four league games on the trot. With eight goals this season, the Dutchman is Barça’s top scorer and his return will increase the attacking options at Xavi’s disposal.

The update from Toni Juanmarti does mention that the trio is yet to receive full medical clearance. However, the expectation is that they could return as early as Wednesday against Linares or at the weekend versus Granada at the latest.