Barcelona are still mulling over the option of going to the winter transfer market in search of a replacement for Christensen. The Dane’s injury allows them to bring in a reinforcement using his place in the squad and without the need for the club to have ‘Fair Play’. Deco and Flick are hesitant because what they see on the market does not convince them and they consider that with what is in the squad they can make it to the end of the season. They are still taking their time and will see how the team performs in the first games of the year.
However, Flick will have a number of important “signings” thanks to the recovery of some players who are key to the team. One of them is Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan has returned to training with the rest of the group and it is hoped that he will be able to play in the derby against Espanyol or, if not, in the Super Cup. The player is already recovered from the mental problems that forced him to stop at the end of November, after the match against Chelsea. His return is vital for the coach following Christensen’s recent absence.
Caution with Gavi
The other big addition will be Gavi. The midfielder suffered a serious injury last September and had to undergo surgery on his meniscus. He is already in the final stages of his recovery, although his return will not be immediate. He is expected to return to training with the team during January and to return to competition in February. Everyone at the club is very cautious about his return, after the problems he had with his previous injury. A fully fit Gavi is the best reinforcement Flick could have.
The Pedri factor
Then there are three players who are expected to return soon: Pedri, Kounde and Olmo. The first of these was unable to play against Villarreal in the last match of 2025. It was not a serious injury, but with the Canary Islander everyone is very cautious due to the importance he has in the team and because he already suffered an injury at the end of October that kept him out for a month. The midfielder is training with the group and, barring any surprises, will be ready for Espanyol.
The right-back
The same goes for Jules Kounde, who finished the match against Villarreal with discomfort. It was not serious, something that the player himself confirmed, and he will also be available on Saturday for the match against the Pericos. The right-back position is the only one that is not doubled up at Barcelona and the presence of the Frenchman is fundamental. When he has not been able to play, Eric Garcia and Casado have played
Doubts with Olmo
Dani Olmo’s return for the derby is not so clear. The Blaugrana suffered a shoulder dislocation a month ago in the match against Atletico Madrid. His recovery is going well, but he is very close to being able to play against the Perico team. His evolution in the next few hours will determine whether or not he can be there.
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