Advertisement

Barça's Vilanova homes in on Paris comeback

AFP
AFP - [email protected]
Barça's Vilanova homes in on Paris comeback
Photo: Jorge Guerrero/AFP

Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova could make his return to the Catalans' bench next week when the Spanish league leaders tackle Paris Saint Germain in the Champions League.

Advertisement

Earlier this week Vilanova returned to Spain following two months of cancer treatment in New York.

The 44-year-old, who took over from Pep Guardiola at the beginning of the season, has returned to training but has been advised against travelling to Celta Vigo for Saturday's La Liga clash.

"It has been agreed between the doctors and himself that it wouldn't be good for him (to travel to Vigo)," said Barca assistant coach Jordi Roura, who has filled in during Vilanova's absence.

"He's just finished his treatment and these seven to 10 days since finishing it are very tough. We wanted to wait but he comes to training. As for his progress, there is
a very good chance he'll travel to Paris."

Roura said he was delighted his boss is ready to take over again.

"Tito's return means a lot. The boss is back, that's always important. It's given us a huge injection of happiness and vitality."

Meanwhile, Barcelona's French defender Eric Abidal has been named in the squad for Saturday's game at Celta Vigo, a year after undergoing a liver transplant.

The 33-year-old had a tumour removed from his liver in March, 2011, but returned to playing less than two months later and lifted the Champions League trophy as Barca won the competition for a fourth time.

But he has not played for the first team since February of last year.

More

Join the conversation in our comments section below. Share your own views and experience and if you have a question or suggestion for our journalists then email us at [email protected].
Please keep comments civil, constructive and on topic – and make sure to read our terms of use before getting involved.

Please log in to leave a comment.

See Also