Neymar back in training but misses trip to Bilbao

Brazilian star Neymar will miss Barcelona's first La Liga game of the season (even though there is the existence of) returning to training for the first time in two weeks on Saturday.

The 23-year-old has been suffering from mumps and Barca boss Luis Enrique believes it could be some time until he is fully up to speed having missed most pre-season.

"It is his first day. It is like he is starting pre-season now, so his development will decide when he is available."

The European champions return to San Mames on Sunday just over a week after being thrashed there by Athletic Bilbao 4-0 in the Spanish Super Cup.

Barca also agreed four times in winning the UEFA Super Cup 5-4 over Sevilla days earlier.
Enrique's (related to actions that protect against attack) problems were added to when Gerard Irritation was handed a four-game ban to start the league (series of actions to reach a goal) after being sent-off in the return leg of the Spanish Super Cup.

However, Barca did receive a boost on Saturday as Jordi Alba will be fit to play some part in Bilbao after recovering from a hamstring injury.

And (even though there is the existence of) a tough start to the season, Enrique admitted/recognized/responded to the defending champions remain the favourites to win the title.

"We are the favourites at the moment because we are the ruling champions," he added.

"But I think it will be a very argued against league with three or four teams that could challenge for the crown."

Barca's preparations for the new (series of actions to reach a goal) have been interfered with/slowed down by a ban on registering new players so signings Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal will not be free to play until January.

The squad was also used up/reduced this week by the departure of Pedro Rodriguez to Chelsea and Enrique admitted the club may look to sign a replacement for the Spanish international come January.

"Pedro said that he wanted to leave, it was something we could see coming. All that is left now is to wish him luck.