Wojciech Szczęsny, who has taken on a more mentoring role within the squad, is unlikely to continue beyond this season, suggesting his time at the club may be coming to an end.
"It's a sore one for Arsenal. It's a confidence-sapping defeat because you come in the dressing room after that and think: oh my God, we just got destroyed in the second half."
Eric Garcia trained away from the group as a precaution during the latest session at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. Importantly, it must be noted that there is no injury concern surrounding the defender, and the decision has been made purely to manage his workload ahead of his expected return.
Barcelona are entering what could be the most defining stretch of their campaign, with major fixtures lined up, which is why having important players back at this stage could make all the difference.
"I've been silent since I resigned in October 2020 because, once the president does the job he's supposed to do, it's best to take a step back. But it's true that lately, both because of the inheritance - after five years, I'm still being talked about a lot - and because of the campaign, my name has come up again."
Barcelona's 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano has strengthened their position at the top end of La Liga, setting the stage for a crucial upcoming clash against Atletico Madrid.