Flick calls up a new face from academy to Barcelona first-team training amid injury concerns | OneFootball

With the international break almost out of the way, FC Barcelona have begun preparations for the resumption of La Liga action this weekend.

The Catalans lock horns with Athletic Club on Saturday, 22 November, in a game that will mark their return to the Spotify Camp Nou after more than 900 days away.

Leading up to the game, the Blaugrana look set to welcome Raphinha and Joan Garcia back into the scheme of things, with the pair recovering fully from their injuries.

Pedri, too, is closing in on a comeback, but did not train with the group today, as Barcelona do not wish to take any risks by rushing him back.

Guillem Victor called up

According to Sergi Capdevila of SPORT, Hansi Flick called up young right-back Guillem Victor to first-team training today. This comes amidst growing concerns with injuries in the right-back position.

A few days ago, Xavi Espart was injured while on duty with the Spanish U-19 national team. The La Masia right-back had been training regularly with the first team, so Flick needed another option to support Jules Kounde in that position.

One of the candidates was Landry Farre. However, the 18-year-old Barça Atletic player suffered a knee injury against Espanyol B in last Sunday’s derby.

Medical tests will be carried out on Tuesday afternoon to determine the scale and nature of the injury, but the initial outlook is not positive.

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Given the situation, Flick opted to call Guillem Victor to first-team training today to provide cover in the right-back position. Joan Anaya would have been an option, but he will be needed by the reserve team in Farre and Espart’s absence.

The 18-year-old starlet, brother of former Barcelona forward Pau Victor, is currently a part of the Juvenil A setup, but has also played for Barça Atletic on one occasion.

It will be interesting to see whether Guillem continues to train with the first-team squad in the coming days leading up to the game against Athletic Club.

Meanwhile, young midfielder Tommy Marques also worked with the senior setup in today’s session.

As for Farre, there is concern at the club over his injury. If the worst fears are confirmed, it would be a major setback for the teenager, as he had only recently recovered from a right-ankle injury that kept him out at the start of the season.

Despite that, though, Barcelona’s belief in his long-term potential is unquestionable. The defender renewed his contract with the club last month and is tied down until June 2028.