Barcelona star returns to group training, hopes to be included in squad list for Atletico fixture: Reports
Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen has reportedly returned to group training ahead of the Catalans' LaLiga clash against Atletico Madrid on December 21. The center-back has been out of action since August 2024.
Christensen has made only one appearance for Barcelona this season before being sidelined for an Achilles tendon injury in August 2024. The Denmark international underwent surgery to get rid of the issue that has been bothering him since last season. He has missed 24 games for the LaLiga giants across competitions.
According to a report by SPORT journalist Adri Fernandez, Andreas Christensen returned to full group training on Wednesday, December 18. The center-back is reportedly feeling better and could be included in the squad list to face Atletico Madrid at home in LaLiga this Saturday, December 21.
However, it could be a while before we see Christensen back on the field or in the starting XI as the club does not want to rush his return. Nevertheless, the Danish defender's return can be a major boost to Barcelona as Flick reportedly has high hopes for him.
With Ronald Araujo back in the squad, Christensen and Araujo could return as La Blaugrana's center-back duo. The duo played an essential role in Barca's LaLiga triumph in the 2022-23 season under former coach Xavi. This could also guarantee some well-deserved rest for Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez.
Andreas Christensen could leave Barcelona in the upcoming January transfer window: Reports
According to a report by Relevo, Andreas Christensen could be on his way out of Barcelona in the winter transfer window. The outlet suggests that the Danish defender is practically out of the club's plans and is on his way out.
The center-back arrived at the Camp Nou from Chelsea in 2022 on a reported four-year contract set to expire in June 2026. He has maintained 26 clean sheets in 54 games played for La Blaugrana in LaLiga.
Christensen's injury in August enabled Barca to register their €60 million worth summer signing from RB Leipzig, Dani Olmo, in LaLiga. Moreover, Inigo Martinez has been performing well for the club in Christensen's absence. The aforementioned report suggests that the Catalans are keen on renewing Martinez's contract.
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs such as Newcastle United are reportedly monitoring Andreas Christensen's situation at Barca. The Denmark international was previously linked to a move to Newcastle in the summer.