Barcelona’s march towards the La Liga title could soon receive a significant lift, with key players edging closer to full fitness at just the right time of the season.

As things stand, Barcelona are on the brink of wrapping up the league, and the return of important squad members could prove decisive in getting them over the line.

According to recent developments from AS, both Raphinha and Marc Bernal are expected to rejoin the group this week.

The plan is for both players to target medical clearance by Saturday, just in time for the crucial clash against Osasuna.

That fixture could effectively seal the title, as a victory would put Barcelona 14 points clear at the top, leaving Real Madrid with no room for error.

Should Madrid fail to beat Espanyol the following day, Hansi Flick and his squad could be crowned champions with four games still left to play.

Raphinha’s potential return is particularly significant, as the Brazilian winger has been sidelined since late March after picking up a right hamstring injury while on international duty against France.

Bernal will rejoin training this week. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Initially ruled out for five weeks, he is now approaching the final stages of his recovery.

As per the outlet, Barcelona’s medical team have taken a cautious approach.

This is because earlier this season, Raphinha suffered two separate setbacks while attempting to rush back in time for the Clasico at the Bernabeu.

That experience has influenced the club’s current handling of his situation, ensuring there are no unnecessary risks taken at such a critical stage of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Bernal’s recovery has taken slightly longer than expected, as the young midfielder sustained a grade-one sprain in his left ankle, with an initial recovery timeline of around ten days.

That period has now effectively doubled, though it is important to stress that this is not due to any relapse, but rather a cautious approach to ensure full fitness.