Marc Casadó nears Deportivo return following collarbone injury

Deportivo La Coruña midfielder Marc Casadó is closing in on a return to competitive action after recovering faster than expected from a fractured right collarbone. The loan player from FC Barcelona has resumed full training with the group and could be named to the matchday squad this weekend as the team prepares to face RCD Espanyol.

Casadó joined Deportivo on loan from Barcelona on the final day of the summer transfer window in search of regular playing time and top-flight experience. After breaking into coach Antonio Hidalgo's plans, his progress was halted on September 20 during a match against Real Betis. A hard fall following a challenge with Marc Roca resulted in a fractured right clavicle, requiring surgical intervention and a lengthy layoff.

Nearly seven weeks after the injury, the Catalan midfielder has cleared a major hurdle by completing several group training sessions. Deportivo manager Antonio Hidalgo addressed the player's status ahead of Saturday's fixture, noting that doctors have confirmed the bone has healed completely and praising the player's determination.

"He is very excited. We must be cautious, considering that there is an international break coming up. We will see how he finishes training today to determine his availability for the squad," Hidalgo stated during his pre-match press conference. The coach added that the player's mental drive has pushed him forward throughout his rehabilitation process.

While Casadó is eager to return to the pitch, media reports indicate it is unlikely he will immediately reclaim a spot in the starting lineup. The recent strong performances of Italian midfielder Amatucci—who earned a call-up to the under-21 national team—alongside Mario Soriano suggest the coaching staff may stick with the core group that secured a victory over Osasuna.

Deportivo enters the fixture at the RCDE Stadium looking to maintain positive momentum during what has shaped up to be their second-best start in seven seasons in the top tier of Spanish football. In addition to Casadó, the team has welcomed back forward Aubameyang, who also shortened his recovery timeline to feature recently.

Saturday's matchup also marks a significant milestone for the opposing side, as RCD Espanyol prepares for their first match under newly appointed manager Eder Sarabia. Although Sarabia is suspended from the touchline and assistant Jon López will direct the team, Deportivo anticipates a challenging atmosphere as they attempt to secure another vital away result.