Barcelona midfield sensation aiming for El Clasico return with possible travel for Inter clash | OneFootball

Barcelona are set to receive a timely boost in the form of Marc Casado, with SPORT reporting that the midfielder is very close to receiving full medical clearance.

The 21-year-old has been sidelined since suffering a partial tear to the lateral ligament in his right knee during Barça’s 4-2 win over Atletico Madrid.

But after nearly two months of recovery, he is back training with the group and eager to rejoin Hansi Flick’s squad in the final stretch of the season.

Casado could be back sooner than expected

Although Casado’s initial recovery timeline suggested a two-month layoff, which would conclude on May 16, all signs now indicate that his return could come even earlier.

He is reportedly in good shape and has resumed training at full intensity, which suggests a return to the matchday squad is imminent.

The decision on when exactly he rejoins competitive action will ultimately lie with Barça’s medical staff and Flick, but Casado himself is raring to go.

Marc Casado could return earlier than expected. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

There is even a possibility that he could be included in the travelling squad for the upcoming Champions League semi-final against Inter.

While it is unlikely he would feature in the match itself — with the club adopting a strict ‘zero-risk’ policy — the trip could help him ease back into the competitive rhythm and rebuild match sharpness.

Eyes on El Clasico return

Casado has reportedly set his sights on the La Liga clash against Real Madrid at Montjuïc as the perfect occasion for his return to action.

That fixture could prove pivotal in the title race, and Flick will be happy to have another reliable option in midfield, especially one who has emerged as a surprise standout this season.

After more than six weeks on the sidelines, Casado is expected to be gradually reintegrated into the squad, but he will be available for selection in the coming weeks.