Barcelona receive defensive boost for crucial Clasico with Real Madrid as key player returns to training ahead of potential title-decider with bitter rivals

The Spanish international missed Tuesday night's Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter after failing to prove his fitness. Balde has been missing since April 13 after picking up a hamstring injury in his left leg, however, according to Spanish journalist Javier Miguel, he is expected to feature in El Clasico this Sunday after rejoining group training, with additional individual sessions planned.

Having missed both legs of the semi-final, the full-back, who has registered one goal and 10 assists in 43 appearances for Barcelona this season, now looks on track for a timely return.

Barcelona sit four points clear of Real Madrid in La Liga, and a win this weekend will put them on the verge of securing the league title. However, a Madrid victory would narrow the gap to just one point, setting up a tense finish. Head coach Hansi Flick has had to adjust in Balde's absence. In the Champions League clash against Inter, the German coach reshaped his defence, with Inigo Martínez at left centre-back, and Gerard Martin slotting in as the left-back.

Barcelona have scored 163 goals in all competitions this season, more than any other team in Europe's top five leagues. But defensively, they have struggled. Despite an xG against of 64.3, they have conceded 66 goals. Flick will hope the return to fitness of Balde, who will likely come up against Rodrygo if he starts, will help keep Carlo Ancelotti's men out.

With the treble dream now over after their thrilling midweek defeat to Inter Milan, Barcelona will shift their full focus to La Liga, trying to finish the season as champions. After Sunday's Clasico, the Catalans finish the campaign with games against Espanyol, Villarreal and Athletic Club.