Barcelona vs. Real Madrid: Catalan giants 'handed major injury boost' ahead of El Clasico

Barcelona centre-back Inigo Martinez will allegedly be fit for Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid.

The Spain international looked to have suffered a hamstring injury in the latter stages of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan, which led to him being replaced in the 76th minute.

Martinez immediately became a major doubt for Sunday's La Liga clash against Real Madrid.

However, according to AS, examinations have shown that the experienced centre-back was only suffering with an overuse issue, and he will therefore be available for the league fixture with Carlo Ancelotti's side.

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Martinez 'will be fit' for El Clasico

The report claims that the 33-year-old is due to train on Friday with a view to starting El Clasico, as Barcelona bid to record a victory which would put them in an incredible position to win the La Liga title.

Martinez has been vital for Barcelona during the 2024-25 campaign, making 44 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and registering six assists in the process.

Eric Garcia also appeared to be in discomfort when he was replaced in the 98th minute of Tuesday's incredible European contest, but the Spain international is also set to be available this weekend.

Barcelona led the semi-final tie 6-5 on aggregate when Raphinha scored in the 87th minute of the second leg at San Siro, but Francesco Acerbi came up with a 93rd-minute leveller before Davide Frattesi won it in extra-time for the Italian side.

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Will Balde be available for Real Madrid clash?

Alejandro Balde's fitness for Sunday remains unclear, with the 21-year-old still battling a hamstring problem.

The Spain international was initially due to return against Real Valladolid in La Liga last weekend, but he was unable to prove his fitness, and the defender was then absent against Inter in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

Balde, who has one goal and 10 assists in 43 appearances for Barcelona this season, will be assessed in the coming days before a final decision on his involvement in the La Liga clash is made.

Barcelona are top of the La Liga table on 79 points, four points ahead of second-placed Real Madrid with four games left.