Opponent watch: Chelsea defender makes miraculous recovery just ahead of Barcelona clash | Barca Universal

"In Chelsea's recent 2-0 victory over Burnley, the headline was not the scoreline, but the defender's sudden return to action. For weeks, the message from Stamford Bridge had been clear: Badiashile would be sidelined long-term. Enzo Maresca, speaking ahead of their October fixture against Nottingham Forest, had stated that Cole Palmer would be "six more weeks out" and followed it by confirming that "Benoit will be out until December. He suffers from a muscle problem.""

"Despite that prognosis, the French centre-back unexpectedly played 45 minutes against Burnley, marking a comeback far earlier than anticipated. After weeks of uncertainty and setbacks, Badiashile has reappeared on the pitch two full weeks ahead of schedule, raising questions about whether Chelsea will attempt to use him against Barcelona. From Barcelona's perspective, this twist changes little about their own mindset. Flick's team arrive for this Champions League duel in strong attacking form, and Chelsea's defensive organisation was already a known obstacle."

"Whether Badiashile features or remains on the bench, Barcelona will approach the match with confidence, especially given their recent resurgence and the consistent threat posed by their forward line. Chelsea, meanwhile, still face a dilemma, as Badiashile has managed only four appearances this season, amassing just 192 competitive minutes. Throwing a partially recovered defender into a high-intensity clash against one of Europe's most explosive attacks carries risks - risks Barcelona will be more than ready to exploit if given the chance."

Benoit Badiashile returned to action unexpectedly, playing 45 minutes for Chelsea two weeks earlier than the December return originally projected due to a muscle problem. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca had indicated long-term absence for the defender while also confirming other injury timelines. The early comeback reduces his time on the pitch this season to only four appearances and 192 competitive minutes, raising fitness and selection concerns. Barcelona enter the Champions League fixture in strong attacking form and will target any defensive vulnerabilities. Deploying a partially recovered centre-back presents performance and injury risks against elite opposition.

Read at Barca Universal