Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed relief as key players returned to fitness ahead of Tuesday’s crucial La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid.

Barca claimed the top spot in the league with a 3-1 victory over Alaves on Saturday, though Atletico sit just three points behind in fourth. Pedri made his first-team return as a second-half substitute after more than a month out with a hamstring injury and is expected to start against Diego Simeone’s resilient side. Midfield partner Frenkie de Jong, who missed the Alaves match due to family reasons, is also likely to feature.

“I’m really happy. The players are coming back, and maybe we can raise our level. That’s the most important thing,” Flick said on Monday, while confirming that Uruguayan centre-back Ronald Araujo remains sidelined.

The German coach has faced criticism this season following several disappointing performances, including a 3-0 defeat to Chelsea and 2-1 losses to Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

Despite Barcelona leading the league, Flick acknowledged the team still needs to improve.

“I know we are not at the same level as last season,” he admitted. “But we have potential, and we need to increase our level.”