An explanation for the absence of Memphis Depay from FC Barcelona’s squad to take on Athletic Club has been provided on Thursday.

Xavi Hernandez’s troops are primed to return to action later this evening, in a daunting Copa del Rey Last-16 trip to San Mames.

The aforementioned Depay, however, will play no part in proceedings. This comes on the back of widespread reports that the Dutch international, fresh off the back of a prior spell on the sidelines, is now suffering with ‘muscular overload’.

On a more positive note for the Blaugrana, in Depay’s place comes the returning Martin Braithwaite, back amongst the club’s matchday setup for the first time since all the way back in August.

Catalans faltering

To say that a victory is required for Xavi and co. in the Basque Country on Thursday night would be something of an understatement.

This comes with the Copa del Rey representing one of only two realistic remaining pathways to silverware at the Camp Nou for the 2021/22 campaign.

Barca were sent packing from the Spanish Super Cup at the hands of Clasico rivals Real Madrid just last week, and sit a whopping 17 points off the pace being set by Carlo Ancelotti’s troops at the La Liga summit.

Why Memphis Depay is absent from Barcelona’s travelling squad for Athletic Club clash

Real Madrid’s players celebrate during the Spanish Super Cup semi-final football match between Barcelona and Real Madrid at the King Fahd International stadium on January 12, 2022. (Photo by FAYEZ NURELDINE / AFP) (Photo by FAYEZ NURELDINE/AFP via Getty Images)

A premature exit from the Copa would therefore leave just the Europa League title for the Blaugrana to target over the 2nd-half of the campaign, an almost unfathomable situation for one of world football’s most successful clubs.

 

Athletic Bilbao vs Barcelona live streaming: Watch Copa del Rey online

Chelsea ready to offer 15 million euros for wantaway Barcelona man as left-back update surfaces