Defender Maffeo returned to group training at Valencia Club de Fútbol on Thursday, a positive update ahead of Sunday's clash with FC Barcelona. The La Liga match will be played at Mestalla stadium at 16:15, with Carlos Corberán's team seeking their first win after a tough start that leaves them 18th with just one point.
As reported by www.comuniate.com, Maffeo completed his second consecutive day with the group after missing the last match against Deportivo due to muscular problems. Those issues are thought to be resolved, opening the door for his availability against the league leaders. Valencia faces this fixture eight points behind Barcelona.
What is the status of the other injured players?
The situation is less encouraging for other squad members. Midfielder Luis Rioja, dealing with an ankle problem, could not take part in group work and his availability for Sunday is uncertain. Similarly, full-back Foulquier remains sidelined. Goalkeeper Van Oevelen, who had to leave Wednesday's training session limping, was also absent. The extent of his injury is still to be determined.
Corberán and his staff will have the coming days to finalize preparations for the trip to Barcelona while monitoring the progress of these players. The team has conceded four goals and scored only one in their first three league games, a record that needs urgent improvement. Fans can check the latest team news on our injuries page.
What is Valencia's context heading into this match?
The match against Barça comes at a delicate time. Valencia Club de Fútbol is on a run of LLD (Loss, Loss, Draw) and needs to react quickly. With a -3 goal difference, defensive solidity will be key against a rival with great attacking power. The return of Maffeo, an experienced defender, brings options at right-back.
On the other hand, the absences condition tactical decisions. The possible loss of Luis Rioja, a midfielder, would reduce creativity in the center of the park. The squad is looking to regain confidence at a Mestalla stadium that will be a decisive factor. The full La Liga standings are available at standings.
What comes after the Barcelona game?
Regardless of Sunday's result, the calendar offers no respite for Valencia. The next stop is a trip to Sevilla on Thursday, September 11th to face the Andalusian side, currently in eighth place. It will be another tough away test in a week packed with commitments.
The team must quickly find more consistent performance to climb the table. Every point will be valuable in this early stage of the season. Supporters can plan their follow-up of the campaign by viewing the fixtures schedule. The work of the next few days under Corberán's orders will be essential to turn things around.
