Barcelona Set to Welcome Three Key Players Back From Injury for Showdown With Real Madrid

• Barcelona have been plagued with injuries to key players since the beginning of the new season
• The 2022/23 La Liga champions are slated to take on Real Madrid after the international window
• The Catalans are reportedly set to recover many of their players ahead of the upcoming El Clasico

In recent times, Barcelona have managed to divert the public attention away from their off-field challenges through their outstanding performances on the field.

However, Xavi Hernandez’s team has faced difficulties in maintaining this trend since the beginning of the new season, primarily due to a series of injuries that have plagued the club.

In their last two matches, La Blaugrana had to deal with the premature substitutions of key players, Robert Lewandowski and Jules Kounde, both succumbing to injuries in the first half.

As they enter a critical phase of the season following the international break, including a highly anticipated clash against Real Madrid, Barcelona might receive a significant injury boost, as reported by Sport.

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Barcelona handed injury boost ahead of El Clasico

According to the Spanish media outlet, midfielder Pedri Gonzalez - who has been sidelined with a muscle injury since August, as Brazilian forward Raphinha - who suffered a hamstring injury during a narrow victory against Sevilla, and striker Lewandowski - who was on the receiving end of a tackle from FC Porto’s David Carmo, could all potentially return to the line-up after the international break.

While it should be noted that the fixtures against Athletic Club and Shakhtar Donetsk might come too soon for this trio, it will give assurance to the Catalan club’s fans about their availability for the showdown against Real Madrid.

Additionally, as reported by Football Espana, the availability of Dutch midfielder, Frenkie de Jong will also be evaluated before Barcelona faces their fierce Spanish rivals in El Clasico at the Olympic Stadium on October 28.

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Nonetheless, one concern that might keep Xavi and his coaching staff a bit anxious is the match fitness of these recovering stars when that important clash rolls around.

Barcelona’s Xavi gets trolled by fans

Sports Brief also reported on fans trolling Barcelona coach Xavi after he celebrated a goal with enthusiasm before it was eventually ruled out for offside.

His celebration of the disallowed goal triggered a flurry of reactions, with many comparing the manager's joy to that of a UEFA Champions League winner.