In three days, FC Barcelona will lock horns with Rayo Vallecano in their first game after the conclusion of the international break.
Leading up to the game, Gavi’s ACL injury has come as a huge blow for the Catalans, but they have welcomed back Frenkie de Jong to full team training.
But there appears to be some doubt about the involvement of key star and first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
No risks with Ter Stegen
Ter Stegen has been dealing with a back issue that led to him missing Germany’s game during the international break.
Tests conducted did not reveal any major issue with the 31-year-old goalkeeper, but he has not been in training with the rest of the team so far this week.
The first-choice shot-stopper did not participate in any session today either and Mundo Deportivo is reporting that Barcelona might decide not to take any risks with him against Rayo Vallecano.
It must be noted that Barça play an important Champions League game against FC Porto after the Rayo clash, following which they are penned in to take on Atletico Madrid in La Liga.
As such, it might make sense for Xavi & co. to allow Ter Stegen added time to fully recover, considering that he has previously had problems with his back.
Anyway, Thursday is seen as the key and a decision on the German international’s availability could be made based on whether he trains tomorrow or not.
Inaki Pena waiting for his chance
In case Ter Stegen is not ready to start against Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona will have to turn to La Masia graduate Inaki Pena.
The 24-year-old, who signed a new contract with the club a while ago, has not played a single game so far this term, but that could change on Saturday and Pena is understood to be prepared to step in if he is needed.
