Injury update: Barcelona central defender set to return in three weeks

Defender Samuel Umtiti is expected to return to full fitness in three weeks, almost three months after suffering a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot.

Umtiti’s Barcelona tenure has been haunted by extreme injuries and while he has always managed to come back strong, the sword of sheer uncertain future now hangs right on his head as we approach the summer transfer market.

There’s absolutely no denying the fact that Barcelona will make some investments in defence and with Andreas Christensen all but confirmed, Umtiti along with Clement Lenglet will have to find a new team in order to stay relevant.

Good thing for Barcelona is that the defender, who extended his deal in January 2022 in order to accommodate new signings, is tied with the team until 2026.

This gives Barcelona the leverage to demand a significant transfer fee which, in turn, will be used in bringing summer reinforcements.

Barcelona’s intentions regarding Umtiti’s extension was never to acquire his services in the long run. On the contrary, it was only to register a certain Ferran Torris.

And despite the renewal, there are no guarantees whatsoever whether he can replace any of the first team regulars in the starting XI once he is back to full fitness.

The 28-year-old world cup winner has made a solitary appearance for the team this season despite being fit for the most part of the first half of the season. Hence, the signs are pretty much clear.

As of today, the defender is continuing his rehabilitation at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper under the supervision of the club’s medical experts. As reported by SPORT, he is expected to return in mid-April but it remains to be seen whether Xavi will, in fact, use his services during the business end of the season.

On a personal level, his desire has always been to play and settle in Barcelona, but he understands the situation is tough and one can expect a firm decision at the end of the season.