Could Dembele return for 'El Clasico'?
Barcelona's record signing Ousmane Dembele could be in line for an early return in El Clasico in December as the Frenchman's recovery is moving quicker than expected.
Dembele's dream move to the Camp Nou was tarnished on just his second La Liga appearance when he suffered a serious hamstring injury in September, but he could make his long awaited return during the clash against Real Madrid at the end of the calendar year.
The 20-year-old was originally ruled out for at least three months and expected to make his return in the new year, but according to Spanish publication 'Marca', after his successful operation, Dembele's rehabilitation is going better than his expected and he could make his comeback sooner.
The third 'El Clasico' of the season, after the two legs of the Spanish Super Cup in August, will take place at the Bernabeu on December 23rd and Barcelona will hope to be in a position to further extend their current lead over La Liga champions Real Madrid.
The aforementioned source report that although it is too early to put a precise date on the youngster's return, it is not totally implausible that he could make his return earlier than expected, with the derby being the last game before the winter break in Spain.
The last thing the Catalan giants will want to do is rush Dembele back into action, and they are in the fortunate position not to be reliant on his contributions, as they currently sit four points clear at the top of La Liga.
It would certainly be some re-introduction for the French youngster if he could make his return in the one of the biggest games in the football world.