Robert Lewandowski trains in a mask, hoping to make swift return for Barcelona

Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski returned to the training pitch on Wednesday, four days after sustaining a fractured eye socket that forced him to miss the Copa del Rey quarter-final against Atlético Madrid. The Poland striker worked with the squad while wearing a custom protective mask, and club medics are optimistic he can be cleared for Saturday’s La Liga visit of Athletic Club.

Lewandowski’s availability would provide a timely lift for a side still recovering from the physical and emotional toll of Wednesday night’s extra-time cup exit. Athletic, meanwhile, face their own quick turnaround after contesting the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad on Thursday evening, and Barça staff privately hope that tie goes the distance.

Coach Flick is expected to shuffle his pack at the weekend. Ferran Torres, who has found the net only once in his last eight appearances across all competitions, is among the candidates to drop out of the XI. Lewandowski, who scored in the 5–1 victory over Villarreal before being struck in the face late on, offers the most reliable route to goals should he receive medical clearance.

The striker has reiterated that “there’s plenty still to play for” as the club look to claw back ground in the league, while the manager offered his reflections on the pitch at Camp Nou after the cup elimination.