Taking a look at some of the more important injuries and bans ahead of this weekend’s Primera Division games. Most La Liga teams are having to shuffle through their roster of players at the end of a difficult season.
It sounds like there is good news for Barcelona fans, as captain Andres Iniesta could make a return against Villarreal. The game is vital in the Camp Nou’s side attempts to clinch a new league title. According to manager Luis Enrique, Iniesta is back in training and is likely to be available for selection. However, Jérémy Mathieu is doubtful to be fit to play. Their adversaries, Villareal, are hoping to recuperate midfielder Bruno Soriano in time for the game.
Real Madrid will be champions if they win the remaining games in the seasons. Zidane’s team is tied on points with Barcelona, but has one game in hand. The good news is that defender Pepe is back in training. The player fractured two ribs against Atletico Madrid, but should have recovered. According to reports he could be available against Granada.
The bad news is that Dani Carvajal sustained an injury which could take him off the pitch for the rest of the season. It is a Grade II hamstring that was also sustained in Real’s encounter to city rivals Atletico, in the Champions League. Also, Gareth Bale remains injured. The most optimistic estimate is he will return at the end of the month.
Atletico Madrid play Eibar on Saturday afternoon. Diego Simeone’s team suffered from injuries for most of the season and should be used to finding alternatives. José Giménez and Sime Vrsaljko are doubtful to start. Another important player, Stefan Savic, is suspended. Juanfran, Bernabé and Augusto Matias Fernandez are back in training, but as of now there is no confirmation on their status. Eibar’s most recent injury was that of Ander Capa, but the player is expected to become available for selection very soon.
