Double boost for Barcelona as injured star, new signing train with group ahead of Valencia clash

FC Barcelona sars have begun preparations for Sunday’s meeting with Valencia after being given two days off following an intense opening to the La Liga campaign.

Hansi Flick’s side have made a perfect start to the season, winning all three of their matches to collect nine points and move to the top of the table.

After three matches in a short span, the German coach felt his squad needed some time to recover, which is why the players were given a break on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Now, back in training at the Ciutat Esporiva today, Barça have received a double boost.

Indeed, according to SPORT, Gavi has recovered from injury and resumed group training and Gabriel Jesus’ first session with his new teammates.

Gabriel Jesus joins the group

Gabriel Jesus arrived in Barcelona on Monday and was presented as the club’s latest addition on the transfer deadline day after signing a three-year contract.

Jesus trained with the Barcelona team. (Picture credit: X/@FCBarcelona)

Until today, the Brazilian had not yet trained alongside his new teammates. He has now completed his first session with the squad and is expected to integrate quickly into Flick’s plans.

The striker arrives after his summer preparations with Arsenal and could soon be available for competitive action, starting with the weekend game against Valencia.

Gavi on course for Valencia return

Meanwhile, Gavi has spent the last few days following a specific recovery programme after his injury.

The midfielder suffered a heavy blow to his right leg during Barcelona’s opening league match against Elche.

There was understandable concern because it was the same leg in which he suffered a serious injury in 2023.

Gavi has recovered from injury. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

As such, the midfielder missed Barcelona’s matches against Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano, but he is now back in full training whici is a major boost for Flick.

Depending on Gavi’s feelings during the next few sessions, he is expected to return to the squad for Sunday’s trip to Mestalla.

Barcelona are staring at an important week as they face Valencia before they open their Champions League campaign against Feyenoord at the Spotify Camp Nou on 9 September.

Gavi could therefore provide Flick with another option during a particularly demanding run of fixtures, while Jesus will also be looking to establish himself within the squad as quickly as possible.

At present, Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji are the only players unavailable through injury.