Luis Swarez set for Barcelona debut.

Uruguay striker Luis Suarez could feature for the first time for his new club on Monday when Barcelona face Mexican club Leon in the annual preseason Gamper Cup at the Camp Nou.

The 27-year-old trained with his new club team mates for the first time on Friday following the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s ruling that Suarez will no longer be banned from training, as per his initial sanction following his biting incident at this year’s Fifa World Cup.

Suarez is still banned from all official matches until 25 October, yet could make an appearance in Barca’s match-up against Leon on Monday as it is deemed a friendly fixture.


Catalan coach Luis Enrique was delighted with his new signing after seeing him in action in just two training sessions.

“The impression is that he’s a top class player,” the Blaugrana coach told a press conference on Sunday.

“He reads the game well and understands our style.”

Enrique then hinted at a possibility of playing the former Liverpool frontman in the friendly.

“I would like to give him some minutes (on Monday),” he revealed. “He did a great job when he trained alone.”

Suarez himself was thrilled after hearing the news that he could join his team mates on the training pitch last week.

“I am really happy to feel like a footballer again, and to be with my teammates,” he said.

“I just couldn’t wait to get started.

“Now I’ll just have to wait to play again, make contact with the fans, and feel the sensation of playing in a stadium like the Camp Nou.”

Coach Enrique revealed that Xavi and Neymar are also nearing match fitness, and could feature on Monday night, with kick-off scheduled for 8.45pm at the Camp Nou.