Injury Updates Provided on FC Barcelona's Lopez, Raphinha & Yamal

With a crucial El Clasico at the Bernabeu before the end of the month, many fans have been left very anxious as to whether or not they would return from action by then. Well, some clarity has now been provided.

SPORT journalist Jordi Carne reports that he should be back shortly, writing, "FC Barcelona are confident that Hansi Flick will recover three vital players in his scheme for the first match after the international break."

In his report, Carne added that, "Lopez already carried out some parts of Barca's training session last week," and that Raphinha's recovery could be complete "one day before the duel against Girona."

Finally, Carne suggested that Yamal's return is the hardest to predict, as he has a muscle injury, which can be harder to assess.

What's Next for FC Barcelona?

Overall, a very positive report. Even just having Raphinha and Lopez for the game against Girona would be a massive boost. From there, Flick can manage their minutes against Olympiacos in the Champions League, before the game against Real Madrid at the end of the month.

Meanwhile with Yamal, no doubt there will be extra caution. He played just two times - once off the bench and one start - upon return from his previous spell on the sidelines, before suffering another injury. It is absolutely crucial that he is fit for the Clasico at the Bernabeu.

So, with the potential for all three players to be at Flick's disposal for that game, and Rashford just picking up a knock against Sevilla, it is safe to say things could be a lot worse at Barcelona.

The Catalan side are still without Gavi, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Joan Garcia, but there is hope that the latter will be back sooner rather than later - whilst the first two are more medium to long term absences.