Reports: Lionel Messi may return in time for El Clasico

Messi has been reduced to the role of a spectator for the timebeing

When we return to club football after the international break, one of the greatest spectacles of football that we witness twice every season will occur and it was earlier reported that a key figure in that event will not feature. Now, however, Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo are claiming Lionel Messi could be on track to return for the El Clasico at the Bernabeu on November 21.

The talismanic Barcelona forward suffered an injury to his medial collateral ligament that has seen him spend time on the treatment table since going off injured early in September when Barcelona played Las Palmas. Reports in the recent past, along with Luis Enrique’s insistence that Messi will return only when he’s fully fit and ready indicate that his return for the big meeting against Real Madrid was highly unlikely.

Messi is now reportedly training with Barcelona B and doing well in the lead up to Saturday’s encounter. His progress from injury seems to be picking up pace and he could see about 30 minutes of action according to the report.

Another outlet, Sport, are confident that the Argentine will be back for the El Clasico but is currently still working on his fitness and is focusing his work on making his injured knee better.

Adriano is hopeful that Lionel Messi will return in time to face Real Madrid

Adriano hopes Messi can return for the Clasico

In the absence of Lionel Messi, the other big names in the Barcelona squad, the likes of Neymar and Luis Suarez have stepped up to carry the team forward. There was a short dip for the Catalan club but they’ve recovered well and are now cruising.

While acknowledging everyone’s contribution in Messi’s absence, his teammate Adriano is hopeful that the forward can return for their crunch clash against rivals Real Madrid, the Daily Mail reported.

He said: “He is recovering very well, doing everything to get to the game and to have him in the team changes a lot. 'There's a difference when he plays or doesn't, but in his absence we've managed to come together and move forward in matches.”

“Every day he's been the Leo we're accustomed to: laughing, joking, and doing things with confidence.

“Would I put money on him playing in the Clasico? Hopefully, yes.”

But Messi was not the only one Adriano had praise for, he also had some choice comments on Neymar who is his teammate from Brazil as well. He backed the national team captain to go on and become a finalist in this year’s Ballon d’Or gala along with Luis Suarez.

Adriano said: “There's been a big development in all aspects, and now I think it's hard to see Barca without him [Neymar]. I'm happy for him because I always trusted him. Hopefully it stays like this, not only an example for Barca but for Brazil.

“He can make history here, and I think he, Messi and Luis Suarez will be Ballon d'Or finalists. There are no egos. They help each other and the whole team. There's a very good atmosphere and if you don't get something here, your teammate is next to you and helps you.”