Barcelona defender yet to fully recover from physical problems ahead of Espanyol derby

After a triumphant result in the first El Clasico of the season, FC Barcelona face the Catalan derby next as they lock horns with bitter local rivals RCD Espanyol later this weekend.

After giving the squad a couple of days off from training following their exploits at the Santiago Bernabeu, Hansi Flick was back putting the players through their paces today at the club’s training facilities.

Eric Garcia still not fully recovered

Now, Mundo Deportivo reports that as Barcelona started preparations for the game against Espanyol, defender Eric Garcia was not present in the training session.

The former Manchester City star has missed the Catalans’ last three games due to an adductor discomfort he picked up just before kickoff against Sevilla.

Eric Garcia could return this weekend. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Garcia did part of the recovery sessions with the group on Sunday, but as per the latest update, he has not yet fully recovered from the physical problems that are ailing him.

However, the expectation is that the 23-year-old will be able to do some sessions with the group in the days to come and be available for the clash against Espanyol at Montjuic on Sunday night.

While Garcia could still make the cut, Barcelona will definitely be without the services of Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Ferran Torres, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Marc Casado.

However, Araujo has been working hard on his rehabilitation and could be back available at the manager’s disposal soon after the international break in November.