Barcelona have received a significant lift ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico showdown with Real Madrid, as both Marc Casado and Alejandro Balde are set to be available for selection.
Casado, who was expected to be out for two months after sustaining an injury in March against Atletico Madrid, has returned ahead of schedule and will receive medical clearance, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The 20-year-old midfielder had been a key figure earlier in the season before being displaced by Frenkie de Jong.
In a further boost for manager Hansi Flick, left-back Alejandro Balde resumed full training on Friday.
Although not expected to start, his return provides much-needed depth as Barcelona prepare for a must-win match that could all but seal the La Liga title.
Robert Lewandowski is also fully fit following his substitute appearance in the midweek Champions League defeat to Inter Milan.
The veteran striker is pushing to reclaim his starting berth from Ferran Torres, who has hit form at a crucial time.
Flick’s options are improving at a vital moment as Barcelona look to rebound from their European disappointment and potentially close out the domestic campaign in emphatic style with a win over their fiercest rivals.
