Injury update: Barcelona attacker to return for Rayo Vallecano clash

 Barcelona’s upcoming league game against Getafe was supposed to mark the return of their key injured players. But it appears Frenkie de Jong and Pedri are both being earmarked for a return against Atletico Madrid.

As far as Ousmane Dembele is concerned, there has been much uncertainty over the attacker’s injury. The player has been out injured since late January due to a hamstring problem and has missed almost the entirety of the second half of the campaign.

Dembele’s absence has proven to be costly for Barcelona, who have been knocked out of both cup competitions. Without the Frenchman in the team, even Robert Lewandowski has struggled to score goals.

However, a recent report from Diario SPORT has offered an update on fitness of Dembele. The report suggests the forward is eyeing a return to training with the team next week. He is on the final stretch of his recovery, so a return could soon be in the offing.

Dembele was not training with the rest of the team normally all this while, which led to fears that he may have aggravated his problems. But the report clarifies that it was done only due to the precaution of the Barcelona team doctors.

Although Dembele’s possible return against Atletico Madrid has been completely ruled out, there is a chance the former Borussia Dortmund starlet will be available for action in the Rayo Vallecano game on April 26.

Dembele only has to pass one last test, which will determine his core strength. Other activities such as ball control and even shots on goal, will also be monitored, before the attacker gets the green light to return to the pitch.

While one would argue that Dembele has returned in contention far too late, it will be a boost for Barcelona, nevertheless, as they look to end the campaign on a positive manner and secure the league title.