Ronald Araujo returns as Barcelona brace for Atletico war

The defender had been forced off during the recent La Liga meeting between the two sides at the Metropolitano, raising concerns over his availability. However, he trained normally with the squad, easing fears for manager Hansi Flick just two days before the European quarter-final first leg.

There was not entirely good news for Barcelona. Marc Bernal remains sidelined with an ankle injury picked up in that same match and is set to miss Wednesday's encounter.

Frenkie de Jong and Andreas Christensen were also absent from training. De Jong is close to returning from a distal biceps problem, while Christensen continues his recovery from a partial ACL injury. Raphinha has returned from Brazil to begin rehabilitation but is still weeks away from fitness.

With several senior players unavailable, Flick turned to youth, with prospects joining first-team training as preparations intensified.

Despite the injury concerns, Barcelona head into the match with confidence after a 2-1 league win over Atletico at the weekend. However, discipline could prove just as important as form.

Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Gerard Martin and Marc Casado are all one yellow card away from suspension, putting them at risk of missing the decisive second leg in Madrid.

Yamal has been one of Barcelona's standout performers this season, scoring 21 goals and providing 16 assists in 41 appearances, including nine direct goal contributions in Europe. Losing him for the return fixture would be a major setback.

Lopez has also impressed, contributing 12 goals and 16 assists across all competitions, with strong form in the Champions League.

Barcelona will train again on Tuesday before Flick addresses the media, fully aware that both fitness and discipline could shape their European ambitions against a dangerous Atletico side led by Diego Simeone.

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