The first El Clásico of the season is just around the corner, with Real Madrid hosting Barcelona in the league on Sunday 26th October.
Both teams have suffered with injuries to star players in recent weeks, but several key players are on track to make their return from injury in time for the clash.
For Barcelona, both Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres are already back in full training and are expected to feature in Hansi Flick’s squad this weekend for the visit of Girona.
Having recently undergone an MRI scan, Raphinha is reportedly recovering quicker than expected and could now be fit in time for the showdown at the Bernabéu.
Robert Lewandowski suffered a hamstring injury in Poland’s World Cup Qualifier against Lithuania and is expected to miss the visit to Real Madrid.
Gavi remains a long-term absentee who isn’t expected back until 2026. Attacking midfielders Fermín López and Dani Olmo remain injured and will play no part. Keepers Joan García and Marc-André ter Stegen are both sidelined, with Wojciech Szczęsny expected to start with the gloves.
ESPN are reporting that both Kylian Mbappé and Franco Mastantuono should be available for selection this weekend, having both picked up minor knocks over the international break.
Real are struggling with defensive injuries, with five key players currently on the sidelines.
Antonio Rüdiger suffered a hamstring injury in September and isn’t expected back until December. Dean Huijsen’s fitness remains in doubt having picked up a muscle injury against Villarreal. Ferland Mendy has returned to training following a six-month absence, but remains a long way off playing. Both Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold are in a race against time to be fit for the top of the table clash.
Whilst neither club are at full strength, the stage is set for another blockbuster meet between Spain’s biggest rivals.
