Injured Barcelona midfielder could be back in action for Espanyol clash on January 3 | OneFootball

Barcelona could receive a major boost in early January, with Dani Olmo edging closer to a much-awaited return from injury. 

According to a report from SPORT, the Spanish international is likely to return in the Catalan derby against Espanyol on January 3, a fixture that could mark a crucial turning point in his season.

Olmo has been sidelined since suffering a painful dislocation to his left shoulder during Barcelona’s clash with Atletico Madrid. 

What happened to Olmo?

The incident came in dramatic fashion. The midfielder landed awkwardly after taking a shot and, while he briefly smiled upon seeing the ball hit the net, the pain quickly became overwhelming. 

He was unable to get back to his feet, and his teammates immediately requested medical assistance as it became clear the injury was severe.

The timing could hardly have been worse for both player and club. Olmo had just begun to hit top form under Hansi Flick, starting against Alaves and Atletico and scoring three goals in those two matches. 

He was emerging as one of Barcelona’s most in-form and decisive attacking players, offering creativity, intensity and tactical flexibility in the final third. 

Dani Olmo dislocated his shoulder. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

His sudden absence was a significant blow at a moment when he appeared ready to become a key figure in Flick’s system.

What’s the plan?

Barcelona soon confirmed that the midfielder would be ruled out for around a month.

 Now, as the recovery process reaches its final stretch, optimism is growing within the club that Olmo could be ready in time for the derby against Espanyol, provided everything continues to progress as expected.

However, caution remains the club’s top priority. Barcelona’s medical staff are determined not to rush the player back and are following a highly conservative recovery plan. 

Surgery has been avoided for now, but the objective is to reduce the risk of relapse at all costs. 

A fresh setback would not only compromise Olmo’s season but could also have serious long-term consequences for his career.