Comeback is Possible Now: Injured Barcelona Duo Return and Confirmed to Play Against Atlético Madrid in the Second Leg

Barcelona remain firmly in contention for a place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals despite their disappointing 2–0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the first leg at Camp Nou.

The Catalan side will need a major response in the return leg next Tuesday at the Metropolitano Stadium, where they must win by more than two goals to overturn the deficit and keep their European campaign alive.

According to Mundo Deportivo, optimism has been boosted inside the club following confirmation that midfield duo Frenkie de Jong and Pedri are expected to be available for the decisive clash.

The report adds that there is a strong belief within Barcelona that their chances of a comeback will largely depend on the ability of De Jong and Pedri to perform at their highest level, control possession, and impose a more effective attacking style against Atlético Madrid.

De Jong took part in part of Thursday’s training session and is expected to return to full training on Friday ahead of Saturday’s La Liga match against Espanyol at Camp Nou. The plan is for him to feature in the second half to regain match fitness, with the aim of starting against Atlético Madrid.

Meanwhile, Pedri—who was substituted at half-time in the first leg—underwent recovery work on Wednesday. Head coach Hansi Flick confirmed that the midfielder experienced some “discomfort, but nothing serious,” adding that he did not want to take any risks. As a result, Pedri is likely to be rested for the Espanyol match to ensure he is fully fit for the crucial second leg.