Barcelona full-back returns after missing thursday session due to illness | OneFootball

After a day off to recover from their recent UEFA Champions League victory against Eintracht Frankfurt, FC Barcelona returned to the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper on Thursday to begin preparations for Saturday’s La Liga clash against Osasuna at Spotify Camp Nou.

One of the key developments from Thursday’s session was the absence of Gerard Martin due to indisposition. However, according to SPORT, Martin has now returned to training after missing the previous session and is expected to be included in the squad for Saturday’s La Liga encounter.

The Blaugrana held their final training session today morning at the Ciutat Esportiva ahead of their clash against Osasuna. Martin is expected to continue in his new role as left center-back, a position in which he has delivered impressive performances in recent matches.

Initially deployed in this position during the preseason tour in Asia, Martin has firmly established himself in the starting lineup alongside Pau Cubarsi following the November international break.

Since the game against Athletic Club, he has started 5 of 6 matches, completing the full 90 minutes in 4 of those games. The only exception came in the 3-0 defeat against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, where he was introduced in the 79th minute.

Hansi Flick has praised Martin’s performance and versatility, describing him as one of the squad’s most adaptable players alongside Eric Garcia, who recently extended his contract with Barcelona until 2031.

With Martin back in the squad, Barcelona will aim to maintain their strong defensive form as they host Osasuna this weekend.