Valentín Barco
STRArgentina
Left
Jul 23, 2004
21
5'7"
146 lb
CM
LW
Creative Playmaker
StrasbourgScores in return
Barco (ankle) scored a goal off three shots (two on target), sent in two inaccurate crosses and drew three fouls during Wednesday's 2-1 win over Brest.
Analysis: Barco returned after missing the previous four games due to injury and looked a little bit rusty, not putting up a well-round stat line like the ones he's used to provide. However, he made an even more important contribution as he appeared unmarked inside the six-yard box to slot a pass from the left into the empty net to break the deadlock in the 9th minute. This was the first goal since October for the versatile playmaker, who enjoyed a great bounceback campaign after some frustrating spells in England and Spain.
Starting Wednesday
Barco (ankle) is in the starting XI for Wednesday's match against Brest.
Analysis: Barco was likely to return Wednesday and has made his way into the starting XI immediately, starting in his typical spot in the defensive midfield. He should end the season in this role, recording one goal and four assists in his 26 appearances (23 starts) this season.
Should return Wednesday
Barco (ankle) is expected to be an option for Wednesday's match against Brest, according to manager Gary O'Neil, per ICI Alsace.
Analysis: Barco is looking to be back in the mix as the club closes out the season, with the player set to return from his ankle injury after four games out. This is a major return depending on his fitness levels coming into Wednesday, as he has served an important role in the midfield this campaign. That said, he will be expected to return to a starting role nearly instantly.
Won't play Sunday
Barco (ankle) will not be available for Sunday's clash against Angers after coach Gary O'Neil admitted his return for Thursday's Conference League second leg against Rayo Vallecano had been premature, according to Cyril Olives-Berthet of L'Equipe. "We precipitated the returns of Barco and Doue. They will not be able to play Sunday."
Analysis: Barco had been rushed back for the European fixture despite not being fully ready following an ankle issue, and the consequences of that decision have ruled him out of the weekend clash. The Argentine will now need further recovery time before being available again for Strasbourg's remaining fixtures, with the club managing his return more carefully going forward after the setback.
Available against Rayo Vallecano
Barco (ankle) was spotted training in full Tuesday and is an option for Thursday's Conference League second leg against Rayo Vallecano, the club posted.
Analysis: Barco had missed Sunday's clash against Toulouse as he continued to work through the ankle issue, but his return to full training is an encouraging sign heading into the biggest European fixture of Strasbourg's season. The Argentine's availability gives coach Gary O'Neil another key option to call upon for the second leg against Rayo, with Maximilian Oyedele having covered during his absence and potentially returning to a backup role if Barco is cleared to start on Thursday.
Remains out
Barco (ankle) will miss Sunday's clash against Toulouse but is hoping to return for Thursday's Conference League second leg against Rayo Vallecano, according to coach Gary O'Neil, per ICI Alsace.
Analysis: Barco returned to normal training Saturday, which is an encouraging sign ahead of the European fixture later in the week. The Argentine had been a key figure in Strasbourg's setup before the ankle issue emerged, and his potential return for Thursday would be a timely boost as the club push through a crucial stretch of fixtures. Maximilian Oyedele is expected to continue filling in at midfield for Sunday's clash against Toulouse before Barco potentially reclaims his spot later in the week.
Remains out Sunday
Barco (ankle) will miss Sunday's clash against Lorient, according to coach Gary O'Neil, per Alsasports. "We obviously have Barco out."
Analysis: Barco's absence now stretches to at least two consecutive Ligue 1 matches, with no return timeline provided. The defensive midfielder had been a key figure in Strasbourg's setup before the ankle issue emerged, and Maximilian Oyedele is expected to continue filling in at midfield until Barco is cleared to return.
Remains out
Barco (ankle) is out for Wednesday's Coupe De France match against Nice.
Analysis: Barco is not back in cup action and will wait another game for his return, still suffering from an ankle issue. This will mark a second match in a row out for the crucial defensive midfielder, as he will now turn to Sunday's match against Lorient for a return.
Uncertain for Wednesday
Barco (ankle) is questionable for Wednesday's match against Nice, according to manager Gary O'Neil, per Dorian Faucherand of Alsa Sports.
Analysis: Barco is going to need some testing ahead of Wednesday's cup match, as the defender is still dealing with some ankle pain that leaves him questionable. This is a major point to watch as they head into Coupe de France play, as he is a starter when fit. However, the question will be whether he can play from the start after a late call, potentially worked in from the bench if deemed fit.
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