Back in Action: Lewandowski and Olmo Return as Barça Brace for Elche

Match Preview

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick named the squad to face Elche on Sunday at Montjuïc in the 11th round of La Liga, with Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo returning after injuries.

According to Sport, Barça arrive needing a win to close the eight-point gap to Real Madrid at the top, as Villarreal had climbed to second after beating Rayo Vallecano the day before.

Flick has recalled all available players, and the returns of Lewandowski and Olmo are the standout updates after medical clearance following muscle injuries that kept them out of the last three matches against Girona, Olympiakos, and Real Madrid.

Nevertheless, both players are expected to start on the bench as they regain match sharpness.

Flick continues to rely on youth, naming a squad that includes two backup goalkeepers, Diego Coshin and Eder Aller, while Dru and Xavi Espart are among the players listed on the bench.

Injuries in the wider squad keep the treatment room busy: Pedri remains sidelined with a muscle issue from the Clasico, while Lamine Yamal has reported a little discomfort but continues to train and could be involved if he passes a late fitness check. Ter Stegen and Gavi are still working their way back, and Rafinha and Christensen remain sidelined with muscle problems.

The Barcelona lineup for Elche was announced as follows: Goalkeepers Chesney, Diego Coshin, and Eder Aller; defenders Conde, Araújo, Balde, Eric Garcia, Gerard Martin, and Xavi Espart; midfielders De Jong, Olmo, Bernal, Dru; forwards Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Rafinha, Lewandowski, and Rony Bardji.

Flick spoke about Yamal's situation, saying he is feeling some pains but is improving, and that the club will not dwell on past clashes with Real Madrid. He also highlighted Pedri's injury, stressing the need to adapt and wait for his return while still building the squad around the other attacking talents.

He added that Barça must apply their plan with intensity against Elche, noting that their opponents play as a cohesive unit with a dangerous attack. He also commented on Pena's previous stint with Elche, praising his qualities as a goalkeeper and urging the team to deliver a big performance.

Asked about Yamal's potential future positions, Flick said the best way to rebuild his form is to keep him in his usual role for now, while acknowledging he can adapt deeper when needed. He praised the young winger and said the club will support him to reach his ceiling.

In closing, Flick warned against looking backward toward the Clasico and insisted the team must focus on delivering in the present. He stressed the importance of managing injuries and maintaining collective effort as the season moves through November.

Two punchlines for readers: Punchline 1: If Barça's attack keeps delivering like a late-night stand‑up set, the crowd will demand a season pass to the highlights. Punchline 2: And if defense ever gets tight, remember: Barça's strategy is to outscore the other team and hope the ball goes in twice as fast as the jokes land.