Argentine Lionel Messi has brought his Christmas holidays to an end and is now on his way back to Barcelona. The forward will return to the Catalan city on Monday in a private plane, along with his family, and is expected back in Europe in the afternoon.
The Barcelona star, therefore, will be in condition to take part in training later in the day (18h CET), along with the rest of the first team squad, given Javier Mascherano, Luis Suarez and Neymar will also return to training on Monday.
Messi, who began his winter break on Dec. 18 after the derby win against Espanyol, has enjoyed two weeks off back in his native Rosario, where he has been able to recharge his batteries.
Barça first committment of the New Year is on Thursday, at 21.15h CET against Athletic Club at San Mames in the Copa del Rey. Messi and his teammates, therefore, have 72 hours to prepare for the game, with Villarreal in the league following on Sunday.
Breaking News 