Encouraging signs as Barcelona prodigy resumes group training ahead of Super Cup return | OneFootball

According to a recent report from SPORT, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has received encouraging updates regarding key players.

Among those, young talent Lamine Yamal has begun group training with the team as he works his way back to full fitness.

In fact, it is said that the 17-year-old forward, who suffered a grade 1 sprain to the anterior intertibio-peroneal ligament in his right ankle during the match against Leganes, is nearing the final stages of recovery.

The medical team is optimistic about his availability for the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia where they will face Athletic Club.

Everything is on track

While Yamal will not feature in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey clash against Barbastro this Saturday, Flick hopes to have him ready for the Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Club on 8 January.

Lamine Yamal trained with the team. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

By that date, over three weeks will have passed since the injury, making his return realistic without taking unnecessary risks.

However, it remains to be seen what role Yamal will play in the semi-final. Flick could deploy him as a starter if his fitness allows, or he might use the teenager as a substitute depending on how he performs in the upcoming training sessions.

Christensen is fit too

In addition to Yamal’s progress, there is also positive news regarding Andreas Christensen. The Danish defender took part in training earlier today and could be fully cleared to play in the coming days.

Christensen has been gradually building his match fitness, training alongside his teammates for several sessions now.

Flick will assess whether the centre-back can feature in the Super Cup, though Barcelona currently have several defensive options available, including Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Ronald Araujo, and Eric Garcia.

These developments provide a timely boost for Flick as he prepares Barcelona for a challenging run of fixtures.