Barcelona train for Espanyol clash without Lamine Yamal | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are stepping up their preparations for the first major test of the new year, with all eyes on Saturday’s derby against Espanyol.

Hansi Flick’s side have been back at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper this week, using the final sessions to sharpen details and fine-tune their approach ahead of the Barcelona derby at the Estadi Cornellà-El Prat.

With the squad gradually returning to full fitness and key players edging closer to match readiness, attention around the club has been firmly fixed on the training ground.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the first session of the year came with a notable talking point involving one of Barcelona’s most important attackers. Lamine Yamal was the big absentee from Thursday’s group training, despite initially reporting to the Ciutat Esportiva alongside the rest of his teammates on January 1.

The session was scheduled for a 6 p.m. start, but shortly after arriving, the young forward left the facilities and did not take part in group training.

The report explains that Lamine was experiencing general discomfort and, as a precaution, returned home rather than training with the squad. Despite the concern his early departure may have caused, there is no alarm within the club.

His presence in the derby against Espanyol is not considered to be in danger, and he is expected to train normally today, Friday, in the final session before the derby, as Flick looks to put the finishing touches on his plans for the weekend.

Aside from Lamine’s absence, Flick was able to count on the rest of his available players. Pedri continues to train at a high level and is pushing hard for a return to competitive action against Espanyol.

Dani Olmo is also making steady progress, gradually increasing his workload, and is expected to be available for the derby, although he is unlikely to start the match.

There was also positive news in defence, as Ronald Araujo continues to train normally with the group after rejoining the squad earlier this week.

His inclusion in the matchday squad remains undecided, but his presence on the training pitch is another encouraging sign for Barcelona as they build momentum heading into the derby.

With most of the squad available and key players edging closer to full fitness, Barcelona will hope that Lamine’s absence proves to be nothing more than a minor setback as they aim to start the year strongly in one of the most demanding fixtures on the calendar.