Barcelona received some good news ahead of their match against rivals Real Madrid, with Brazilian Rafinha appearing in group training for the second time in a row, boosting his chances of receiving medical clearance to participate next Sunday.
Rafinha is expected to be fit for the squad, while Dani Olmo, Gavi, Juan García, and Ter Stegen will miss out due to injuries.
The remaining available players completed group training in preparation for El Clásico, with Ferran Torres also participating, who has recovered from his injury.
On the other hand, the absence of Dutchman Frenkie de Jong from training raised some concerns. However, Mundo Deportivo reported that the absence does not appear serious and is likely due to a minor health problem.
German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is experiencing a quiet period following back surgery.
Although Barcelona had placed him on the list of departures following the arrival of young goalkeeper Juan García, his injury temporarily changed his situation and kept him in the first team.
However, German press reports indicate that this scenario may change in the winter.
Sky Sport Germany reported that Ter Stegen's permanent transfer or loan move next January "is not unlikely," noting that the goalkeeper is seriously considering leaving to gain more playing time.
This consideration comes amid the German goalkeeper's strong desire to secure a starting spot with his country during the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
If his absence from matches continues, he may lose his starting position, prompting him to consider new options during the winter transfer window.
Barcelona is second in the Spanish league standings with 22 points from nine matches, including seven wins, one draw, and one loss, scoring 24 goals and conceding 10.
Real Madrid leads the standings with 24 points from eight wins and one loss, scoring 20 goals and conceding only nine.
With the return of some key players and the support of their enthusiastic fans, the Blaugrana enter the upcoming El Clásico in high spirits, while Real Madrid looks to capitalize on home advantage to maintain their lead in what is expected to be one of the most exciting encounters of the season.
El Clásico comes amidst intense global fan anticipation, as the two teams battle it out for the top spot by just two points, further heightening the intensity of the encounter, which represents a historic battle between the two giants of Spanish football.
Barcelona training sees good news ahead of El Clásico
