Barcelona’s injury crisis: Latest updates on Ter Stegen, Araújo, and other key players
The camp of FC Barcelona is going through a tough period as some of their key men have fallen victims to various injuries. This is a rundown of the latest injury news, as of September 2024, of each player and when he is expected to return to action.
Dani Olmo – Muscle injury
Dani Olmo is still considered one of the most versatile attacking midfielders in Spain and his services won't be seen at the Camp Nou until October 16th. Olmo has been truly missed in the team's creative plays, for he unlocks defenses to contribute goals and assists in different forms. Recovery will be closely monitored, and Barcelona hopes for his return to form once he resumes play.
Fermin Lopez – Muscle injury
Meanwhile, young midfielder Fermin Lopez will be out for two to three weeks and will also return in October. Not very often playing as a starter, yet Fermin has shown glimpses of his potential when given playing time and is extremely vital for the future of the team. The coaching staff will look to bring him up to match fitness without overly accelerating his recovery due to how thin the team is in midfield.
Gavi – ACL
Much awaited key young talent, Gavi, will also miss until October. However, despite this, Gavi has started training fully with the squad for a while now, but it is reported he will be eased into the team and hence will return in October. The aggressive playing style in the middle, he gives all in service of the team. He is that kind of energy that can easily disrupt opponents and is integral to the team. His return is not less than crucial for the remainder of the season.
Frenkie de Jong – Ankle injury
Frenkie de Jong, the midfield maestro, is recovering well and might be back in time for either La Liga action against Alavés or the Champions League match against Young Boys. His eventual return ( October 1 or October 6 ) will be a big boost to Flick's side, as the team gets his very good ball control and vision. The club is hopeful that he regains match fitness soon, but currently, his situation is day-to-day.
Ronald Araújo – Hamstring
In the rear, the absence of Ronald Araújo is perhaps the biggest blow. The Uruguayan centre-back is out until January, leaving a hole in Barcelona's backline. Araújo has been key, both for defensive solidity and for his leadership. His physical presence and ability to make crucial tackles have been missed, and the team will need to continue adapting until his return in 2024.
Andreas Christensen – Achilles tendon irritation
Long-term injury casualty Andreas Christensen, a Danish defender, is expected to return before January. His partnership with Jules Koundé & Ronald Araujo looked promising before his injury. By January, his presence will cover up the backline that has been stretched thin because of many injuries.
Bernal – ACL
News that youthful Bernal will miss the entire season was another blow to Barcelona's defensive depth. Not a first-team regular, but was starting to get prominence in the team gradually before tearing his ligament- this especially plays into importance now that competitions have more added fixtures where rotation in the squad is critical.
Marc-André ter Stegen – Patellar tendon rupture
Perhaps most importantly, regarding the impact, is that of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, who is out until June/July of 2025. Over the past seasons, the German shotstopper has been an important figure between the posts, and his absence leaves a huge gap in goal. Ter Stegen had become one of the great leaders and improbabilities for shot-stopping in the Barça team; he is irreplaceable, and his absence forces Barcelona to move to backup options while recovering.
Read here the backup candidates shortlisted by FC Barcelona.
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It is going to be a tough few months for Barcelona, as many key players have fallen injured. The depth of the squad will surely be tested, and manager Hansi Flick will need young talents and fringe players to help him out. While some of them, like Frenkie de Jong and Christensen, are expected to return relatively soon, the long-term injuries of Araújo might make all the difference for the team's performances in La Liga and the Champions League.