Iniesta Resuems Training Ahead Of Chelsea UCL Game

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has reportedly resumed training ahead of the return leg crucial game against archrivals in the Champions League, Chelsea. The Spaniard has resumed training and was pictured running at the club’s training ground on Wednesday, showing signs of racing well against time.

With former Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho cup-tied in the Champions League and a spate of injuries in Ernesto Valverde’s camp, Iniesta is required to be fully fit for the important game. The first leg ended 1-1 even though Chelsea dominated on their turf. The game at the Camp Nou is expected to be a reverse, with Barca expected to see off the competition.

Barcelona would be facing Malaga in the La Liga this weekend and the coach is expected to rotate the squad. Iniesta would be rested for the game. He was instrumental to play as Barca extended the gap at the top last week by beating Atletico Madrid 1-0. Iniesta had to be pulled off midway into the first half but his impact was enough to see the club through. Early reports showed that the World Cup winner might need to sit out games for three to four weeks. However, Iniesta has turned things around quickly to resume training despite the hamstring concern.

The 33-year old remains a very important figure at the club and could still play for as much as two more seasons before calling time on his career. He has been blessed with a rewarding career that spans a decade and half. Valverde will likely be preparing a Plan B just in case Iniesta sits out the Chelsea game.

Chelsea will be eager to take advantage of any weakness from the Barca end to ease the pressure on them. They have lost a string of domestic games and are battling to qualify for next season’s Champions League. It would be an excellent opportunity to let history repeat itself by knocking out Barcelona at the Camp Nou.