Barcelona superstar in line to start vs Espanyol after resuming training; playmaker steps up recovery | OneFootball

Following a refreshing mid-season break, FC Barcelona enjoyed a lively and positive training session on their return yesterday in front of over 5000 supporters at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.

Today, the squad returned to training at the Ciutat Esportiva to prepare for next Saturday’s match against local rivals Espanyol.

And, as per SPORT, Hansi Flick was able to count on two key players in today’s session, both of whom are expected to play an important role in the upcoming phase of the season.

Pedri to start

The first is Pedri. Before the Christmas break, there was a slight concern within the club that his hamstring issue, which had ruled him out against Villarreal, could be serious.

However, club sources now state that the Canary Island midfielder has returned to full fitness after the Christmas break.

Fully fit and ready to start. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Pedri worked with the team yesterday and today, and barring a major surprise, he will start against Espanyol and play a significant role in the Spanish Super Cup.

Olmo pushes to receive medical green light

Another player who returned to the pitch yesterday, and again today, although only partially, is Dani Olmo. The playmaker took part actively in the session, although he did not join the majority of ball-based exercises, as was also the case yesterday.

The plan is for him to be included in the squad against Espanyol, and, while he is not expected to start, he could get minutes if the coach considers it appropriate.

His progress over the coming days will be decisive, and there is no intention to rush him, as it is a tricky injury that may appear minor but is very uncomfortable for the player.

The team will train again tomorrow at 11.00 and on 1 January at 18.00, as they prepare for a derby that is expected to be one of the most tense in the last decade, owing to Joan Garcia’s summer transfer.