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Lionel Messi Set For El Clasico Return

Meanwhile, Messi could be a surprise inclusion in the Barcelona squad for El Clasico against Real Madrid this weekend.

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However, he completed a training session with Barcelona B on Sunday and could be set for a place on the bench.

Messi sustained a knee ligament injury against Las Palmas on September 26 and has been sidelined ever since.

While it would make both footballing and commercial sense for any club to sign a player of Messi’s quality and stature within world football, the initial outlay to sign him would no doubt be too prohibitive for most clubs, including Arsenal.

Spanish daily AS reported that Messi had taken part in training last week, but Barcelona did not issue an official confirmation of the 28-year-old’s return at the time.

Speaking on the Jonathan Ross show which will be aired on ITV on Saturday night, Ronaldo said: “To be honest I think Messi is going to win this year because this kind of trophy, it depends on votes”.

“Messi adapted to our training and even helped with tactical aspects to prepare the team”, he said.

“I don’t know if he’ll be there on Saturday, but I see him well, content and I hope he can get back as soon as possible”.

“Every day he’s been the Leo we’re accustomed to: laughing, joking, and doing things with confidence”.

With 11 matches played, Barca, who are chasing a sixth La Liga title in eight years, lead Real by three points, with Atletico Madrid a further point behind in third.

“I have a good relationship with him, he plays for one club, I play for another club”.

Despite Messi’s absence Barcelona have been in fine form, losing just once in La Liga, and winning seven of their nine fixtures in all competitions.

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