Umtiti handed first Barcelona appearance in five months against Eibar
The defender has suffered injury problems and lost his place to Lenglet
Samuel Umtiti finally made his first appearance for Barcelona this season against Eibar on Saturday. Injuries have plagued the French defender since France's World Cup win in 2018. He suffered a knee problem last season but it's been a foot injury that has kept him out this season. However, he's now back, five months after his last competitive appearance for Barça: against Getafe on May 12.
Gerard Pique's suspension opened the door for Umtiti's return. Ernesto Valverde had to decide who to pair with Clement Lenglet. Jean Clair Todibo has played before the international break but Valverde went with Umtiti, who was given the green light to return to action on Thursday. Both Umtiti and Lenglet are left footed. Umtiti was chosen to play as the right-sided centre-back.
It can't be denied that Umtiti has lost weight within the squad in recent months. Injury issues and Lenglet's form have seen him lose his place in the side. Even when he's not been injured, he's been relegated to the bench.
Against Eibar, he had the chance to show the staff and the fans that he can still deliver at the top level.
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