Barcelona Defender Available for Atletico Madrid Showdown Despite Injury Scare
Barcelona's hopes of overturning a two-goal deficit against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League have been bolstered by the potential return of defender Gerard Martin. Martin had been a doubt for the crucial second leg after being forced off at halftime in Barcelona's recent victory over Espanyol due to an injury. However, reports indicate that he is expected to be fit and available to start in the heart of defense, replacing the suspended Pau Cubarsi.
Martin's availability is a significant boost for coach Hansi Flick, as the defender has been a consistent performer since his move to center-back. While Martin did not participate in team training on Sunday, the plan is for him to rejoin his teammates on Monday. His presence would be crucial for Barcelona as they aim to overcome the deficit at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
Conversely, uncertainty surrounds the availability of midfielder Marc Bernal, who is also nursing an ankle injury sustained against Atletico Madrid earlier this month. Barcelona had hoped for his return for the second leg, but Bernal has yet to resume training, and his participation in Wednesday's match remains unclear. While Bernal's absence would be a setback, the news of Frenkie de Jong's readiness to start alongside Pedri in midfield offers some compensation.
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