Barcelona Bolstered by Returning Stars Ahead of Showdown with Injury-Hit Betis

Key Takeaways:

• Frenkie de Jong and Fermin Lopez returned to Barcelona training today, providing a boost for their clash with Real Betis
• Antony suffered a twisted ankle for Betis against Torrent and remains doubtful for Saturday’s encounter after missing training on Thursday
• Hector Bellering and Isco will also miss the match

Barcelona Prepared for Another Statement Performance

Barcelona’s spirits have been lifted following an impressive display against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night, which ensured the Catalan side climbed to first place in La Liga. The focus now switches to Saturday’s high-profile fixture at La Cartuja, where Barcelona aim to maintain pressure on Real Madrid with another positive result against Real Betis.

Although Barcelona controlled much of their contest with Atletico Madrid, they were forced to dig deep in the closing stages, fielding Dro Fernandez and Andreas Christensen in midfield. Manager Hansi Flick substituted both Pedri and Raphinha as they continue their gradual return to fitness following previous injuries.

✅ Frenkie De Jong i Fermín López, les grans novetats a l'entrenament d'avui. Apunten al #RealBetisBarça@Laporteriabtv @btvesports #FCBLive pic.twitter.com/O5VxbxaUTh

— Joel Gadea Antón (@JoelGadea6) December 4, 2025

Squad Depth Receives Timely Boosts

Barcelona’s injury situation appears to be improving just in time for their trip to Seville. Earlier in the week, it was suggested that Fermin Lopez could return for next Tuesday’s encounter against Eintracht Frankfurt, but following his participation in training on Thursday, reports now indicate he may be named among the substitutes for the match against Betis.

Frenkie de Jong, who has missed the past two matches due to personal reasons and subsequently flu, also made his return to training on Thursday. The Dutch midfielder is expected to be available for selection, increasing Flick’s options in the centre of the park.

Real Betis Face Key Absences Ahead of Crucial Clash

Real Betis enjoyed a convincing 4-1 victory over Torrent in the Copa del Rey, during which Rodrigo Riquelme netted a hat-trick and young right-back Angel Ortiz scored. Manuel Pellegrini can draw some optimism from Sofyan Amrabat’s anticipated availability for the fixture against Barcelona.

Nevertheless, Betis are contending with injury concerns of their own. The primary worry is Antony, who twisted his ankle against Torrent. After missing training on Thursday, the Brazilian winger’s participation remains in serious doubt. Pellegrini is already having to cope without Hector Bellerin, Isco Alarcon, and likely Giovani Lo Celso as well.

Impact of Injuries on Tactical Approach

The absence of several first-team regulars will inevitably affect Pellegrini’s game plan. Should Antony feature, he and Ez Abde may provide the pace to challenge Barcelona’s high defensive line, but the absence of both Isco and Lo Celso is a blow to Betis’ ability to retain possession in midfield. Last week against Sevilla, Pablo Fornals was moved into a more advanced position and delivered a match-winning performance, indicating potential tactical adjustments Betis might make against Barcelona.