Barcelona eyeing up fixture for key player’s long-awaited return from injury

It has been more than four months since Ronald Araujo suffered a serious hamstring tear during the Copa America for Uruguay. He has been on the road to recovery ever since, and very soon that will end.

On Friday, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick revealed that Araujo could start training with the group later this weekend after Saturday night's trip to Celta Vigo. However, Diario AS say he will need at least six to eight sessions to get up to speed – and only at this point will a call-up to the matchday squad be considered.

As a result, Barcelona have identified their match against Mallorca (December 3) as a likely return date for Araujo, although they may instead wait for the match against Real Betis four days later.

Barcelona have not missed Araujo excessively in his absence, as Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi have been very impressive, although his return will undoubtedly be welcomed with open arms.