Barcelona have received a major boost ahead of their long-awaited return to Camp Nou, with Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan García declared fit for Saturday’s La Liga clash against Athletic Bilbao.
Coach Hansi Flick confirmed García will start, while Raphinha is expected to begin on the bench after nearly two months out with a leg injury.
The match marks Barcelona’s first appearance at their iconic home ground in more than two years, with the stadium only partially opened as renovation work continues.
Flick’s side are desperate for three points to keep pace with Real Madrid, who remain three points ahead going into Round 13.
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Barcelona also face a crucial Champions League trip to Chelsea next week, making squad availability even more important.
Camp Nou reopening Sparks Excitement
The renovated Camp Nou will host 45,401 fans for its reopening phase, half of its future 105,000 capacity once construction is complete.
Barcelona last played at the venue in May 2023 before moving temporarily to the Olympic Stadium.
The club hopes the atmosphere will provide a lift as key players continue their recovery.
Midfielder Pedri González is close to returning from a thigh injury and may be fit in time for Tuesday’s trip to Stamford Bridge.
However, Frenkie de Jong is suspended, meaning Flick may rely on Dani Olmo, Fermín López and Marc Casadó in midfield.
Elsewhere in La Liga, Elche remain the league’s surprise package, sitting 11th after losing just three of their first 12 matches.
Villarreal, currently third and only two points behind Barcelona, host Mallorca on Saturday, reports Daily Mail.
Atletico Madrid travel to Getafe on Sunday as the tight top-four battle continues.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, received a boost as Kylian Mbappé returned to full-speed training after an ankle issue.
But Éder Militão has joined Antonio Rudiger on the injury list, leaving Carlo Ancelotti short in central defence.
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