Boost for Barcelona as key duo return to group training today

The past few weeks have been very difficult for Barcelona with results not going their way, injuries hampering the team, and not to forget Xavi’s announcement to leave the club at the end of the season.

But things appear to be taking a turn for the better for the La Liga champions as they have now secured back-to-back wins against Osasuna and Deportivo Alaves, while they are welcoming back players from injury.

Indeed, Inigo Martinez returned to the squad this Saturday against Alaves and two more players appear close to be making a comeback.

Raphinha, Ter Stegen return to team training

Indeed, as per Victor Navarro, key Barcelona duo Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Raphinha have returned to group training today.

Ter Stegen has been out of action since November due to a back injury which required him to undergo surgery.

During an interview recently, the goalkeeper insisted that he was closing in on a return and had resumed training on the field.

Taking a step further, Ter Stegen is now doing part of the group training with the rest of the squad and could soon be back in contention.

Raphinha has been out since last month. (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Raphinha has been sidelined since picking up an injury during the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Osasuna last month.

Initial reports had suggested that his involvement for the UCL Round of 16 first leg against Napoli could be in jeopardy, but his recovery has gone rather well. And he too is doing part of the group training session today.

When will they return?

As has already been reported, Ter Stegen is expected to be back ready for Barcelona for their upcoming La Liga game against Granada next Sunday.

As for Raphinha, it was believed that the game against Celta Vigo on February 17 would be when he comes back. But with him resuming group training today, there is no ruling out him being available for the Granada clash either.