Injured Barcelona duo return to training ahead of Elche clash | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have endured a difficult start to the 2025–26 season in terms of player fitness, with injuries disrupting Hansi Flick’s plans almost every week.

Following the recent defeat to Real Madrid, the team suffered another setback with Pedri Gonzalez picking up a fresh injury.

Meanwhile, Frenkie de Jong, Marcus Rashford, and Jules Kounde were absent from Wednesday’s training session after being granted an extra day of rest. Hansi Flick has introduced a new approach aimed at preventing injuries, allowing players to take individual rest days whenever they experience signs of fatigue.

However, there was finally some encouraging news from Thursday’s session at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. According to Mundo Deportivo, Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo, both awaiting medical clearance to return to competition, trained normally with the rest of the squad.

Lamine Yamal also took part in the full session and completed a high-intensity workout, showing that he is back to his best condition.

The only player who did not train on the pitch was Pau Cubarsi, who remained in the gym for a specific load management routine. He is not injured but is being carefully monitored by the medical staff and is expected to rejoin full training on Friday.

Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen continues to experience minor discomfort and is still working separately from the group.

The return of several key players comes at an important moment for Barcelona, as Flick looks to steady the team’s form and rebuild rhythm ahead of a demanding stretch of fixtures.