Barcelona superstar set to return vs Elche; two injured stars resume on-pitch training | OneFootball

After dealing with seven absences in the first El Clasico of the season last week, FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick can finally breathe a little ahead of their next La Liga match against Elche this Sunday at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.

Indeed, there is positive news with regard to the progress of three players as the Blaugrana carry out preparations for the weekend league clash.

Lewandowski to return

According to Mundo Deportivo, Robert Lewandowski is set to return to the squad this weekend after missing the past three matches for Barcelona.

Lewandowski was not available for the games against Girona, Olympiacos, and Real Madrid due to a muscle tear sustained while on international duty earlier this month.

Initial reports suggested a longer time out for the veteran, but he has made exceptional progress and resumed full group training already, and will return vs Elche. However, his inclusion in the starting eleven is unlikely.

Olmo, Joan Garcia resume training

Back training on the field. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Beyond the Polish striker, Wednesday’s session also brought good news with Dani Olmo and Joan Garcia both returning to light field work.

However, given Olmo’s recurring muscle issues, the coaching and medical staff are taking a measured approach with his return.

Similarly, Garcia, who underwent surgery recently, will be given the necessary time to recover properly, considering that Wojciech Szczesny has been performing at a high level.

With another international break scheduled in two weeks, Barcelona see no reason to take risks with either the midfielder or the goalkeeper.

The Catalans’ goal is clear: to ensure that all three players – Lewandowski, Olmo, and Garcia – return in top condition and can contribute consistently in the demanding stretch of fixtures ahead.