Heading into January, FC Barcelona will need to be mindful of several things. Primarily, the first month of 2024 will bring about new competitions that Barça has thus far not competed in. Ensuring continuity in said competitions will be crucial for Barcelona as they look for a strong finish to their campaign.
However, it is much easier said than done. Xavi, already frustrated with how things were left at the end of 2023, has taken some drastic measures. Non-stop training sessions without respite in between the days have become the norm, and that is how Barcelona intent to go up against UD Las Palmas.
On the other hand, there is also some positive news for the Catalan giants. While their current infirmary of sidelined players is rather worrying, they may have reason to hope. According to AS, Xavi’s side could look to have three key players returning in January of 2024.
The first return from among those three looks likely to be Inigo Martinez. Injured prior to the game against Atletico Madrid in December, Martinez was a significant loss. His ball distribution, experience, and leadership qualities were all sourly missed during his absence.
However, he has not trained thus far with the team since his injury so caution would seem probable. He will likely miss the games against UD Las Palmas and Barbastro. As per the report, however, the goal would be to have him back in time for Barça’s Spanish Super Cup tour to Saudi Arabia.
The second player who seems likely to return in January is Pedri. A key piece of Xavi’s Barcelona, the 21-year-old midfielder’s injuries have been rather worrying.
However, if things go according to plan, Barcelona would also like to have him available in time for the Super Cup clash against CA Osasuna. However, most reports believe he would be more likely to feature in a hypothetical final instead.
Lastly, Marc Andre Ter Stegen could also return at some point near the end of the month. By sticking to the original diagnosis, the German should have completed his two-month recovery by then. However, Barcelona will likely be more cautious with him and possibly have him wait until February to feature again.
Ultimately, the goal for Ter Stegen’s case is to have him back in time for the clash against Napoli. The UEFA Champions League is a great dream for both the player and the club, with both having won the competition together last time in 2015.
