According to Mundo Deportivo, Andreas Christensen is closing in on a potential return for Barcelona, with Hansi Flick hoping to have the Danish defender available for the crucial La Liga meeting with Atletico Madrid on 8 November.
After weeks of defensive injury problems, his comeback could provide the manager with a timely boost ahead of one of Barcelona’s most demanding fixtures of the season.
Christensen has been sidelined since suffering a muscle injury against Sevilla on 19 September.
Barça initially expected him to miss between six and eight weeks, and the club is now working towards the possibility of reintegrating him into the squad for the Atletico encounter.
A return to availability would not necessarily mean an immediate starting role. Flick is expected to take a cautious approach with the defender, particularly given the intensity of the match and the need to avoid another setback.
Even so, having Christensen available could make a significant difference to Barcelona’s defensive options at a time when injuries have left the manager short of alternatives.
Christensen was injured vs Sevilla. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Why Christensen’s comeback matters amid Barcelona’s defensive crisis
Barcelona’s defensive problems have worsened with every new setback.
Xavi Espart is expected to miss seven weeks with an ankle injury, Eric Garcia remains sidelined until after the international break next month, and Jules Kounde is still working towards his return after spraining his left ankle.
The situation has left Flick with few experienced options in defence. Christensen’s return would not immediately solve every problem, but it would give Flick another experienced centre-back to call upon during a critical stretch of the season.
The Danish international sustained an injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his left thigh during Barcelona’s match against Sevilla on 19 September.
The original recovery estimate was between six and eight weeks, making the Atletico fixture a realistic target if his rehabilitation continues to progress as hoped.
Christensen’s return will be a boost. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
There is also a question of match fitness. Even if Christensen is cleared to return, Barcelona are not expected to rush him straight into the starting lineup unless circumstances demand it.
The priority will be to bring him back safely while ensuring he can contribute during a challenging period.
Kounde return imminent; Eric, Olmo still some way away
Christensen is not the only player Flick is waiting to recover, but the timelines for his other injured regulars are less encouraging.
Eric Garcia’s return is therefore expected after the November international break.
Dani Olmo also faces more time on the sidelines after injuring his adductor muscle during the Champions League match against PSG, with a four week-absence expected.
There is some good news on the horizon though, with Kounde expected to be back into contention for Alaves, while Christensen could be poised for a potential return against Atletico Madrid.