Cancelo Set to Return Against Granada as Barça’s Injured Players Recover

João Cancelo is expected to be available for selection against Granada as he continues to follow his specific training plan, providing Xavi with another option for Sunday’s match. After two and a half days of much-needed rest, the Barça squad returned to training yesterday afternoon to prepare for the upcoming clash against Granada at Montjuïc on Sunday night, marking the end of their brief break since December 29.

In today’s training session, Marc-André Ter Stegen continued his preparations without any issues and is set to receive medical clearance in the coming days, making a return to the goal against Granada. The German goalkeeper has been sidelined since mid-November due to a back problem that required surgery.

Ilkay Gündogan also trained without any problems after overcoming lumbar discomfort caused by a strong blow during the Alavés game. Xavi had to substitute the German international in the second half of that match.

Regarding Cancelo, who could only play half of the Vitoria game due to knee discomfort, he has followed the specific plan outlined by the medical staff and is expected to be fit for Sunday’s match.

The injury list is gradually shrinking, and there is anticipation that both Raphinha and Sergi Roberto could receive medical clearance before the Granada game. Raphinha, who trained normally, is likely to be cleared, while Sergi Roberto, who had to stop due to Achilles tendon discomfort, is still training separately. A decision on his involvement in Sunday’s match will be made tomorrow.

In this morning’s training session, Xavi also included several players from the youth team. In addition to the regulars Pau Cubarsí, Héctor Fort, and Marc Casadó, Pau Víctor, Unai, Mikayil Faye, Quim Junyent, and Brian Fariñas joined the session. The squad is gradually regaining fitness, providing Xavi with more options as they prepare for the challenges ahead.