Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has been declared fit ahead of the club’s LaLiga meeting with Athletic Bilbao at the Camp Nou, manager Hansi Flick confirmed on Friday. The 18-year-old, who missed Spain’s recent World Cup qualifiers due to a groin injury, has struggled with similar issues three times since September but has completed two strong weeks of work in training.
Raphinha is also expected to return after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Marcus Rashford remains doubtful for Saturday’s match after falling ill with a fever. Flick expressed delight at having his squad back at the Camp Nou, which reopens with reduced capacity after more than two years of renovations. Barcelona last played at the stadium in May 2023 and have spent the past two seasons at the Olympic Stadium, where Flick guided them to the league title in his debut campaign.
The team held an open training session at the refurbished ground on November 7, with Flick emphasising the emotional lift the venue brings. He described the experience of walking out onto the pitch as “unbelievable,” adding that the atmosphere could give the team a powerful boost during matches.
Barcelona sit second in LaLiga, three points behind Real Madrid, and remain focused on steady progress. Flick stressed the importance of approaching the season “game by game,” insisting the team is clear on its objectives as they prepare to visit Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday.
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