Barcelona are approaching another positive development in their youth ranks, with centre-back Juwensley Onstein nearing a return to group training at Barça Atlètic.
According to SPORT, the 19-year-old is close to rejoining his teammates, provided there are no late setbacks in his recovery.
Onstein is highly regarded within the club, where staff believe his physical qualities and ability on the ball could eventually make him a first-team option for Hansi Flick.
His return would provide another defensive reinforcement for the reserve side as Barcelona continue to monitor talent capable of stepping up when required.
The news follows Ebrima Tunkara’s return earlier this month, giving the club another encouraging sign after a period in which injuries have disrupted the development of young players.
Juwensley Onstein injury update: defender nears training return
Onstein joined Barcelona from Genk last January, but his progress has been hampered by a lack of regular football and subsequent physical problems.
His time at the Belgian club had already been disrupted after he failed to renew his contract, leaving him sidelined before his move to Catalonia.
The Dutch defender then suffered an injury during the closing stages of Barcelona’s pre-season preparations.
Although he featured in several summer friendlies and made a brief appearance for Barça Atlètic last season, he has yet to establish the consistent run of matches needed to accelerate his development.
His immediate priority is therefore to return to full training and build up his fitness without further interruptions.
Why Barcelona rate Juwensley Onstein?
Onstein’s profile helps explain the excitement surrounding his potential comeback.
He is a powerful, left-footed centre-back who is also praised within the club for his distribution, qualities that make him an intriguing option, especially while building attacks from the back.
However, the next stage of his development will depend on availability as much as ability.
Barcelona want him to put together an extended spell without injury before judging how quickly he can progress through the club’s ranks.
Barça Atlètic defensive depth could benefit Hansi Flick
Onstein’s return would give Barça Atlètic manager Juliano Belletti another highly rated centre-back alongside Hafiz Gariba and Alex Campos.
The existing partnership has been performing well, but greater depth would give the reserve side more options across a demanding season.
It could also benefit Flick, who may need to turn to the academy if injuries affect Barcelona’s senior defensive options.
Onstein is not yet an established first-team candidate, but his potential makes his recovery worth following.