Lionel Messi Makes Early Barca Return

Messi and Mascherano were not due to return to Catalunya until Monday after participating at the Copa America in Chile earlier this summer, but both Argentines have now joined their team-mates four days early.

Furthermore, Neymar and Dani Alves have also returned to Camp Nou after they were given extended holidays after taking part in the Copa, too.

The four South Americans were accompanied by Marc-Andre ter Stegen for Thursday's medical examinations. The German goalkeeper, who played at the European Under-21 Championship, did go on the US Tour, but had yet to take the routine medical checks.

The return of Messi, Mascherano, Neymar and Dani Alves means Luis Enrique now nearly has his full squad at his availability again.

Chile international Claudio Bravo is still away on holiday and will be joining his team-mates on Monday.