In the absence of Lionel Messi, defending Spanish Primera Division champions Barcelona have slumped to fourth spot – behind leaders Atletico, rivals Real Madrid, and Sevilla.
In their last game in La Liga, the Blaugrana fell to an unexpected 4-3 loss at Celta Vigo, raising questions whether Luis Enrique’s men can cope without their Argentine superstar.
Even the 29-year-old’s national side Argentina suffered without their captain, drawing 2-2 and then losing 1-0 in their two World Cup qualifiers in the latest international break.
Luckily for both sides, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is growing ever closer to a return, as La Pulga made a return to training on Wednesday ahead of a return to action in La Liga.
Barcelona, who trail Los Rojiblancos by two points in the standings, had to manage without their number 10 for three games – four including the match in which he picked up his knock – in all competitions.
Messi has overcome his groin injury, but whether he will start, or even feature, in Saturday’s clash with Deportivo remains a question yet to be answered by Barca’s medical staff.
However, according to Sport, Leo will play a small part in the weekend fixture in order to improve his fitness, with the goal being to have him at 100 percent in time for their Man City encounter in the Champions League.
Defender Samuel Umtiti has also joined the first-team for training after picking up a knee injury.
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