Ebrima Tunkara returns to Barcelona training after ankle injury

Barcelona youngster Ebrima Tunkara has returned to group training after recovering from an ankle injury that kept him out for around six weeks.

The 16-year-old suffered a ligament injury to his left ankle following a heavy challenge during a pre-season friendly in Vilanova. The setback prevented him from starting the season normally with Barca Atletic after he had completed pre-season with Hansi Flick’s first team.

Tunkara has now begun a progressive return to training, although he is not expected to feature this weekend against SD Logrones. Barcelona will assess his condition over the coming days, with the realistic target being a place in the squad for the match against Utebo in two weeks.

If selected, it would give Tunkara the chance to make his first official appearance of the season. The teenager will wear the No. 10 shirt for Barca Atletic, underlining the club’s confidence in his potential.

Tunkara also has his sights set on the FIFA U-17 World Cup with Spain in November and December. He was named MVP of the U-17 European Championship in the summer and is regarded as one of the leaders of his generation.

His return is also a boost for Juliano Belletti, with Barca Atletic dealing with several midfield absences. Barcelona’s reserve side currently lead their group with 13 points from 15 possible.