Sport: Olmo, Kounde expected to return after international break

When international breaks arrive, Flick and Barcelona always have to pray for good luck. As many as 11 first-team players from Barcelona have reported to their national teams, with Yamal sidelined until Spain's second match against England. Raphinha, who recently sustained another injury while playing for Brazil, will also be a focus of attention.

However, this international break will also help Barcelona welcome back injured players and allow others to get back into top form. Last Sunday, Eric Garcia and Christensen were cleared to return and both featured in the match at the Cívitas Metropolitano; Flick currently has four injured players: Xavi Espart, Rodri, Olmo, and Kounde. The latter two are expected to be available after this international break.

Olmo was injured in the away match against Paris Saint-Germain on October 20. He suffered an adductor injury in his left leg and was expected to be out for four weeks. He missed several key matches against Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Aston Villa, but his recovery has been good and on schedule. The player himself feels well and is expected to be fit for Barcelona's first match after the international break – at home against Villarreal on November 22.

Kounde's absence has been longer than expected. The French full-back was injured in the match against Real Betis on October 17, limping through the game, and Barcelona's medical report showed an ankle sprain. He was initially ruled out of the Paris Saint-Germain match, but his participation in El Clásico was not ruled out at the time. However, he continued to suffer from severe pain and also missed matches against Deportivo Alavés, Aston Villa, and Atletico Madrid. He is expected to make a full recovery in the coming weeks and receive clearance to return before the Villarreal match.

The return of Rodri and Xavi Espart will be later. Rodri suffered a biceps femoris injury in his right leg, and thanks to the Spanish Super Cup schedule adjustment, he is expected to be fit for the December 2 match against Atletico Madrid; Xavi Espart suffered a right ankle injury and is expected to be out for seven weeks, returning to action in mid-December.

The international break will also give Eric Garcia and Christensen more time to recover. Neither player has left with their respective national teams, and Barcelona hopes they will fully regain their form after several weeks out.