When Morocco’s Midfield Enters the Spotlight: Girona Brace for Barca Clash
12 February 2026
GIRONA'S BOOST AHEAD OF BARÇA CLASH
Girona regained a meaningful boost in this pivotal stage of the season, as the eagerly anticipated Barcelona test approaches in round 24 of La Liga, with a growing belief in turning the corner.
INJURY HISTORY AND POSSIBLE RETURN TIMELINE
Azzedine Ounahi is one of the team's brightest stars ahead of joining Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations, noted for his vitality in midfield and superb playmaking.
His absence since December 12 coincided with a tough spell that forced midfield retooling amid injuries and transfer-window changes, pushing the coaching staff to reinvent options.
Ounahi suffered a left calf muscle injury while featuring for Atlas Lions in the Round of 16 against Tanzania on January 4, 2026, with the club announcing the issue on January 28 without a precise return date.
After a recovery period in an intensive rehab program inside the gym, he recently completed group training sessions smoothly, seen as a small victory, according to Mundo Deportivo.
With his return to training, the Spanish newspaper says Ounahi could be a squad option for the Barcelona game, but the staff are cautious given leg injuries and the long lay-off (over six weeks).
A participation seems unlikely for now, and a further week might be wise to ease him back gradually, with the February 23 match against Alavés as a potential reintroduction.
