Injured Barcelona midfielder could be back in action for Espanyol clash on January 3 | Barca Universal

"Barcelona could receive a major boost in early January, with Dani Olmo edging closer to a much-awaited return from injury. According to a report from SPORT, the Spanish international is likely to return in the Catalan derby against Espanyol on January 3, a fixture that could mark a crucial turning point in his season. Olmo has been sidelined since suffering a painful dislocation to his left shoulder during Barcelona's clash with Atletico Madrid."

"The incident came in dramatic fashion. The midfielder landed awkwardly after taking a shot and, while he briefly smiled upon seeing the ball hit the net, the pain quickly became overwhelming. He was unable to get back to his feet, and his teammates immediately requested medical assistance as it became clear the injury was severe. The timing could hardly have been worse for both player and club. Olmo had just begun to hit top form under Hansi Flick, starting against Alaves and Atletico and scoring three goals in those two matches."

"Now, as the recovery process reaches its final stretch, optimism is growing within the club that Olmo could be ready in time for the derby against Espanyol, provided everything continues to progress as expected. However, caution remains the club's top priority. Barcelona's medical staff are determined not to rush the player back and are following a highly conservative recovery plan. Surgery has been avoided for now, but the objective is to reduce the risk of relapse at all costs."

Dani Olmo suffered a left shoulder dislocation during Barcelona's clash with Atletico Madrid and has been sidelined since. He landed awkwardly after taking a shot, briefly smiled when the ball hit the net, then experienced severe pain and could not continue. Olmo had been in strong form under Hansi Flick, starting recent matches and scoring three goals across two fixtures, making his absence a significant blow. Barcelona confirmed a roughly one-month layoff, and recovery now approaches its final stretch with hope of a January 3 return against Espanyol. Medical staff prioritize caution, following a conservative plan and avoiding surgery to minimize relapse risk.

Read at Barca Universal