Which key players return for Barcelona ahead of El Clásico?

WEB DESK: FC Barcelona’s preparations for Sunday’s El Clásico at the Santiago Bernabéu have taken a dramatic turn, as coach Hansi Flick will be forced to watch from the stands after Spain’s Administrative Court for Sport rejected the club’s final appeal against his suspension.

Flick, who received two yellow cards during the match against Girona, has exhausted all avenues of appeal after decisions by both the RFEF Disciplinary and Appeals Committees were upheld. In his absence, assistant coach Marcus Sorg will lead the team from the touchline and conduct Saturday’s pre-match press conference.

Despite the setback, Barcelona have reasons for optimism. The Catalan side received a timely boost with the return of attackers Ferran Torres and Raphinha to full fitness. Both trained this week and are expected to feature against Real Madrid, restoring much-needed pace and creativity to the frontline.

Defender Andreas Christensen remains doubtful with gastroenteritis, while Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, and Joan García are confirmed absentees.

Flick’s absence from the dugout may test Barça’s composure in his first El Clásico in charge, but the return of two key forwards has renewed confidence within the squad as they prepare to face the La Liga leaders in one of football’s biggest fixtures.