Carles Puigdemont, the former president of Catalonia, is poised to return to Spain this week, potentially facing arrest for charges of embezzlement.

His return coincides with the investiture of Salvador Illa, which has sparked tensions between Puigdemont's party, Junts, and the Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC).

Puigdemont has accused ERC of enabling his possible detention by supporting Illa's candidacy, prompting ERC to demand a public apology.

The situation has led to a fracture within the independence movement, with Junts positioning itself as the true voice of Catalan nationalism.

As Puigdemont prepares for his return, the political landscape in Catalonia remains volatile, with the potential for significant repercussions depending on his actions and the response from the Spanish judiciary.