FC Barcelona could potentially have a significant boost for their Champions League campaign with the return of one of their key players. Currently, it appears that FC Barcelona is on track to recover a valuable asset for their Champions League matches, essentially adding a 'new signing' to Xavi Hernandez's first team squad.
After failing to advance past the group stage in their last two attempts, Xavi, the legendary midfielder who has won the prestigious trophy four times as a player, finally experienced success this season. Despite facing some challenges, his team managed to secure a place in the knockout phase. However, it wasn't the most satisfying season for Xavi as the head coach, which has led to his decision to step down from his role on June 30.
Nonetheless, a strong performance in the Champions League could ensure that Xavi leaves the club on positive terms. Barcelona finished equal on points with Porto but emerged as winners of Group H, thanks to two victories against the Portuguese giants. Their next challenge awaits them in the form of Napoli, the reigning Serie A champions, in the round of 16. The first leg of the tie is scheduled to be played at the Diego Armando Maradona stadium on February 12, followed by a return fixture in Montjuic on March 12.
To add to the positive news, goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has returned to training after recovering from a lower back surgery. It is likely he will make his comeback start in the league match against Granada on Sunday. And it seems further reinforcements could be on the horizon as well. Raphinha, who joined Ter Stegen in the training session at the Joan Gamper CT last weekend, is targeting the crucial showdown in Naples as his comeback date.
When a player returns from injury in Spain, it is often hailed as having a 'new signing' for the team. The same logic applies to Raphinha's potential return. The Brazilian winger has missed eight matches so far after sustaining a muscle injury in mid-January. During his absence, Lamine Yamal has taken advantage of the opportunity and solidified his place in the starting lineup.
Considering the magnitude of the fixture against Napoli and the hostile atmosphere they will face, Xavi may hesitate to thrust 16-year-old Yamal into such a high-pressure situation. In this case, if Raphinha receives medical clearance, Xavi might opt to include the experienced ex-Leeds United winger in his team, giving him the chance to make a significant impact during the Champions League clash.
All eyes will be on Barcelona as they aim to progress further in the Champions League after several disappointing campaigns. With the potential returns of key players like Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Raphinha, the team is hoping to make a strong comeback and restore their reputation as one of Europe's elite clubs. As Xavi prepares for his departure at the end of June, a successful Champions League run could be the perfect way to end his first managerial stint with the Catalan giants.
