It is important to understand that FC Barcelona is not exactly playing their best football at the moment. The Catalan giants, led by Xavi Hernandez, have stringed together some necessary wins without being too convincing. However, some of that blame also goes towards the bad fortunes of Barcelona.
Several stars of the first team have already succumbed to various injuries this season. Some players, more than others, are currently sidelined for extended periods of time. The likes of Gavi, Marc Andre Ter Stegen, and Marcos Alonso are expected to be sidelined for longer than others who are also injured.
However, given that the season is now entering its second and final phase, Barça need their players more than ever. As such, it may be time to look at just when exactly are the injured stars returning. Given the team’s rather mediocre displays, it would not hurt to have some key players back.
Pedri: Mid-Late January
When it comes to Pedri, Barcelona continue to insist upon caution. The former Golden Boy winner is a crucial player for Xavi’s Barcelona and he is taken care of as such. For now, it is reported by the likes of Mundo Deportivo that he will travel to Saudi Arabia with his teammates. Ultimately, his participation in the Spanish Super Cup will depend on his progression.
Joao Cancelo: Mid-Late January
Similar to Pedri, Joao Cancelo will also likely travel to Saudi Arabia with Barcelona. He currently suffers from an MCL strain from the Las Palmas game prior to the recent Barbastro clash. However, just as it is with Pedri, he will participate in the Spanish Super Cup if he recovers well.
Ilkay Gundogan: Next game
Despite being absent from the latest training session, Ilkay Gundogan’s presence in the Spanish Super Cup is not at risk. It was simply due to an illness that he missed the recent session and he will be back in no time.
Inigo Martinez: 4-6 weeks
As per many reports, Inigo Martinez will likely take at least a month or more to recover from his latest injury. The Spaniard had only just returned from recovery to take part in Barça’s latest cup game, only to fall down yet again and he had to be taken off not too long after.
Marc Andre Ter Stegen: Aiming for February
The German goalkeeper had to undergo back surgery to put his injury problems behind him. While he was the undisputed starter for Barcelona, it was a decision that the player and club deemed to be necessary. It is hoped that he will be back for the UEFA Champions League clash against Napoli.
Marcos Alonso: Possibly March
Similar to Ter Stegen, Marcos Alonso also had to undergo back surgery to continue his recovery. At the moment, there is no official confirmation as to when he will likely return but some sources believe it will likely take him until March to return to action for Barcelona.
Gavi: Out for the season
The current belief remains that Gavi will be sidelined for the rest of the season. Having suffered an unfortunate ACL injury, the young Golden Boy winner definitely has a hard road to recovering. However, his place in Barcelona remains secure, and his return remains heavily anticipated for next season.