'I hope he can be ready' – Napoli sweat on key player's fitness ahead of Barcelona clash

Barcelona's only realistic chance of a trophy this season comes in the Champions League, although they will have their work cut out for them to win the competition for a sixth time given the quality remaining in the last 16 sides.

They kick off their knockout campaign against Napoli on Wednesday night, with the first leg in Naples. Barcelona could be given a major boost ahead of that game, with Victor Osimhen struggling for fitness after the African Cup of Nations.

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri confirmed after Saturday's draw with Genoa that he did not know if Osimhen would be fit to face Barcelona Football Italy.

“According to him and the doctors, he was down to his last legs. He had a series of muscle problems and it would be crazy to play there for 15 minutes and then risk losing him for months.

“It was wise, as the player himself agreed, to rest better and hope that he can be ready for Barcelona. I say hope because I never worked with Osimhen because of injuries and the African Cup of Nations, it was not never in shape.”

It remains to be seen whether Naples can count on Osimhen for the match in Naples, though Barcelona Would be happy to see him left.