Xavi Hernandez and Barcelona fans are keeping a close eye on the progress of Ousmane Dembele as the French striker approaches the final stages of his recovery as per the reports from Mundo Deportivo.
As per the said report, the French winger is aiming to make a comeback on Sunday, March 12th, at San Mames against Athletic Club, and then further build his fitness for the crucial league game on March 19th against Real Madrid at the Spotify Camp Nou.
It is understood that Dembele will train with the squad next week, as his prescribed five weeks of rest after a rectus femoris muscle injury come to an end. The final decision for his participation will be in the hands of the medical team, who, like Xavi, are wary of any unnecessary risks.
The 25-year-old Frenchman’s comeback will be a timely boost for the Catalan club, who are currently grappling with several key absences. Pedri Gonzalez and Robert Lewandowski were already absent during the Copa del Rey game against Madrid, and they will be joined by Dembele, who will miss this weekend’s game against Valencia.
Young midfielder Gavi will also be absent from the squad as he is suspended for the match against Valencia due to the accumulation of five yellow cards. Despite these challenges, La Blaugrana are expected to come up with a strong lineup, and Xavi is confident in his team’s ability to clinch a victory against a relegation-threatened Valencia side.
Dembele’s return puts the Blaugrana fans and the team at ease and with the likelihood of Lewandowski being available for the Bilbao clash and Pedri returning for the Clasico, Cules will have something to smile about come mid-march.
