Luis de la Fuente’s update gives Spain hope as Olmo nears return
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente announced that Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo is making good progress after his adductor injury, and confirmed the player is expected to return after the November international break. The encouraging update arrives as Germany coach Hansi Flick looks forward to the midfielder’s comeback.
Barcelona have received encouraging news about Olmo’s recovery. Luis de la Fuente said he had personally contacted Olmo and was encouraged by their conversation.
Injury details and recovery
Olmo’s injury occurred during Barcelona’s Champions League match with Paris Saint‑Germain at the Parc des Princes on October 20. He suffered a left adductor injury after a collision and was forced off in the first half, with Fermin Lopez replacing him. Olmo is progressing well in his recovery. Barcelona confirmed the injury through an official medical statement, estimating about one month on the sidelines.
Olmo was injured against Paris Saint‑Germain in the Champions League. Luis de la Fuente offered a positive indication of the recovery’s progress, stating, “I spoke to him [Olmo] last week, and he was making good progress.”
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Implications for Germany and Barcelona
The development offers Germany coach Hansi Flick a timely boost, with the 28‑year‑old approaching the final stages of rehabilitation from the adductor injury sustained against Paris Saint‑Germain in October. Flick is particularly keen to have Olmo back. Barcelona have managed their attacking options well during his absence, but Olmo offers a different style to Flick’s system. Olmo’s ability to operate between the lines, recognise passing opportunities and make decisive choices in congested areas makes him valuable against compact defences.
This quality is important when Barcelona face compact defensive blocks and need openings without relying solely on individual dribbling. Flick will welcome Olmo’s return, but there is little reason to rush him as the squad has strong alternative attacking options.
Olmo has missed four consecutive matches since the injury, including the El Clasico, the league game with Alaves, the Champions League fixture with Aston Villa and the match at Atletico Madrid. Barcelona are preparing for Olmo’s potential return against Villarreal. They are increasingly optimistic that he will be available for their first match after the international break, against Villarreal on November 22. Olmo remains confident about reaching that target.