Barcelona suffer early setback as key midfielder ruled out of Espanyol derby | OneFootball

Barcelona’s preparations for the return of La Liga have suffered an early setback, even before competitive football resumes. 

With the derby against Espanyol approaching, the Catalan side already know they will be without one of their key attacking pieces. 

According to reports from SPORT, Dani Olmo will not be fit in time to feature in the upcoming clash, dealing a blow to Barcelona’s plans for the first major test of 2026.

Early setback for Barcelona

Despite positive signs in his recovery, a return for the derby is considered highly unlikely. 

Olmo has been following a conservative treatment plan after suffering a dislocation to his left shoulder, and while the process has gone well, the medical staff are unwilling to take unnecessary risks. 

The match against Espanyol is expected to be intense and physically demanding, making it the wrong setting to rush a player back from such an injury.

Dani Olmo was injured against Atletico Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The injury itself dates back to December 2, when Olmo was forced off during a crucial encounter against Atletico Madrid. 

The expected recovery period was around one month, and Barcelona are determined to stick strictly to that timeline to avoid any complications later in the season.

So what now?

Now, Olmo is expected to rejoin group training this week gradually. However, full medical clearance may not arrive until much closer to the Spanish Super Cup. 

Hansi Flick is fully aware of the situation and has already shifted focus towards having Olmo ready for the Spanish Super Cup, which represents Barcelona’s first chance to lift silverware this season. 

The semi-final against Athletic Club will take place in Saudi Arabia, with the club eager to start the year on a positive note. 

The other semi-final will see Real Madrid face Atlético, with the final scheduled to be played in Jeddah.