Barcelona facing a dilemma over key player’s fitness situation ahead of El Clasico

Barcelona have a decision to make ahead of their preparation for the upcoming encounter against Real Madrid on March 19.

One of the club’s most important players in Ousmane Dembele is expected to make his return to the pitch, after picking up a thigh injury at the end of January.

However, as reported by SPORT, there is a downside to giving Dembele a medical clearance ahead of El Clasico. This is because the attacker is running the risk of being called into action by the French national team, coached by Didier Deschamps.

The Frenchman is well aware of Dembele’s recovery and would want to incorporate him into the national team, ahead of their UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier matches against the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland, respectively.

Dembele’s early return could risk a potential relapse, especially given the attacker’s injury history. Barcelona, though, can avoid Dembele’s call-up to the French national team if they do not hand him the medical clearance to feature in the Clasico.

While it is Dembele who will take the final call on his fitness, the decision will be made in consultation with Barcelona and their medical team. Deschamps, who must announce his shortlist just before the Clasico, will be keeping a close eye on this situation as well.

If both parties decide to postpone Dembele’s return to the pitch, the player would at least have three additional weeks to strengthen his recovery. He would, in that case, return to action against Elche on April 1.

In the meantime, though, Barça will be focused on the upcoming league encounter against Athletic Club. While Dembele might not be available just yet, the Catalans are set to be boosted by the return of Polish hitman Robert Lewandowski in this crucial clash.