Lionel Messi and Samuel Umtiti are back in training and nearing full fitness, but Barcelona will likely have to wait until next week for the huge double boost to their ranks.
The pair were both spotted during the open part of Friday’s training session at the Ciutat Esportiva de Sant Joan Despi on Friday.
However, it is not expected that they take any part in the squad that travels to Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, though Messi is in with a chance of making the Champions League trip to Inter Milan on Wednesday.
France defender Umtiti has not been seen in Blaugrana colours since September after suffering a niggling knee injury, while Messi’s fractured forearm has kept him for two weeks since the 4-2 victory over Sevilla.
Ominously for their rivals, Barcelona have gone undefeated since Umtiti’s last appearance, including the 5-1 El Clasico thumping of Real Madrid last weekend.
