Soccer

Barcelona’s Luis Suarez could debut against Real Madrid

Striker’s ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini set to end the day before El Clasico at Bernabeu

Barcelona’s Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez could debut against Real Madrid. Photograph: EPA
Barcelona’s Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez could debut against Real Madrid. Photograph: EPA
Wed Sept 10 2014 - 14:20

Luis Suarez's debut for Barcelona is likely to come against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Saturday October 25th.

The striker – who joined from Liverpool earlier in the summer – is serving a worldwide ban after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini while playing for Uruguay at the World Cup. His four-month suspension expires on Friday October 24th.

Barcelona said in a statement: "Luis Suarez will be able to play in the 'clasico' at the Santiago Bernabeu on 25 October. The court of arbitration for sport confirmed to FC Barcelona that the Uruguayan forward's sanction expires the day before.

"Therefore, Suarez would be able to make his official debut in the match against Real Madrid if that is what (coach) Luis Enrique decides."

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The Cas upheld Fifa’s decision to ban Suarez for four months but ruled a separate ban from all football-related activities was disproportionate, meaning the striker has since been training with the squad.