Barcelona fans have reason to be optimistic as two key players, Robert Lewandowski and Joan Garcia, are on the verge of returning from injury. According to Mundo Deportivo journalist Ferran Martínez, both could be available for selection as early as Sunday, November 2, when Barça faces Elche in the 11th round of La Liga.
Lewandowski, who had been sidelined due to a muscular issue, reportedly resumed full training with the first team earlier this week. The Polish striker’s recovery has progressed faster than initially expected, giving head coach Xavi Hernández a major boost ahead of a crucial stretch of fixtures. Meanwhile, young goalkeeper Joan Garcia is also nearing full fitness after a recent setback that kept him out of action. The medical staff at Barcelona have confirmed that his condition is improving rapidly, and there is a growing sense of optimism inside the Blaugrana camp that he could be cleared to play in the upcoming match. “Lewandowski is moving well and has responded positively to training sessions. If everything goes as planned, he should be available for the next La Liga fixture,” Ferran Martínez reported.
Robert Lewandowski’s return could not come at a better time for Barcelona. The veteran striker, who has been the team’s main goal-scoring weapon since his arrival from Bayern Munich in 2022, has missed the last few games due to his injury. In his absence, the Catalan side struggled to convert chances, relying heavily on the creativity of Pedri and Ferran Torres to carry the attack. Before his injury, Lewandowski had scored seven goals in ten appearances this season across all competitions. His leadership on the field, positioning, and finishing have been vital for Barcelona’s offensive balance. The 36-year-old striker not only brings goals but also experience and composure — qualities that young teammates like Lamine Yamal and Gavi continue to learn from.
Xavi’s side has lacked that killer instinct in front of goal in recent weeks, drawing matches they could have won comfortably. The return of Lewandowski is expected to restore sharpness and authority in the attacking third. Sources close to the club revealed that Xavi has been cautious not to rush his star forward back too soon. The medical team designed a personalized recovery program, combining gym work, light tactical drills, and gradual reintegration into full-team training.
“Robert is a consummate professional. Even during recovery, his focus and discipline are remarkable,” said one Barcelona physiotherapist. If Lewandowski features against Elche, it will likely be as a substitute, with a full return to the starting XI expected in the following game. However, his mere presence on the bench would be a major psychological lift for both his teammates and the supporters.Alongside Lewandowski, another positive development for Barcelona comes from the goalkeeping department. Joan Garcia, the 23-year-old shot-stopper, is reportedly close to returning to match fitness after missing several weeks through injury.
Garcia’s progress has impressed the coaching staff, and there is growing confidence that he could make the squad for the Elche game. His return adds much-needed depth to the goalkeeper position, especially given that the team has had to rely heavily on Marc-André ter Stegen, who has been in exceptional form but carrying a heavy workload.
For months, injuries have plagued Barcelona’s season, testing both the depth and adaptability of Xavi’s squad. The absence of key players like Lewandowski, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong disrupted the team’s rhythm and forced tactical adjustments. Now, with players gradually returning, Barcelona appears to be regaining its full strength just in time for a critical run of fixtures across La Liga and Europe.
The club’s medical department deserves credit for carefully managing each player’s workload and avoiding premature returns that could aggravate injuries. Xavi has repeatedly emphasized the importance of recovery and rotation, knowing that overuse could risk further setbacks. The return of experienced figures such as Lewandowski provides a balance of leadership and stability to a young team still finding consistency. Meanwhile, the reintegration of Joan Garcia offers the squad greater security in goal and ensures that competition remains fierce.
