Barcelona’s pre-season preparations were meant to be smooth, with the club confident in its physical preparation structure under Julio Tous.
Yet, the campaign has been plagued by a series of fitness setbacks that have caught the attention of fans and pundits alike.
Injuries to key starters have disrupted Hansi Flick’s plans, forcing tactical reshuffles that continue to test the squad’s depth.
Training routines have come under scrutiny, with questions raised about gym protocols and recovery methods.
Even with medical teams working overtime, the club has struggled to maintain a consistent flow of fit first-team players for crucial fixtures.
After several internal complaints and mounting frustration from the coaching staff, Barcelona have now taken decisive action regarding player rehabilitation.
According to The Athletic, Tous’ team has been relieved of primary responsibility for managing injury recoveries, a dramatic shift from earlier this season when he was entrusted with overseeing full rehabilitation protocols.
The decision comes following direct concerns from high-profile players, including Lamine Yamal, who, upon returning from international duty in Croatia, formally requested a reassignment of his rehab oversight.
The club quickly approved the change, signalling a new approach to player recovery.
Defender Alejandro Balde also raised issues after an injury linked to the incorrect use of gym equipment, while Raphinha suffered a setback just before El Clasico, and Pedri tore his hamstring soon after.
These incidents prompted urgent meetings between coaching and medical staff, emphasising the need for immediate intervention.
Barcelona’s management opted to return Tous’ role to a structure more akin to last season, limiting his responsibilities to daily physical preparation rather than complex injury management.
The move has fuelled speculation about tensions within the medical department, particularly between physiotherapists and club doctors, over how Pedri’s recovery is being handled.
The change aims to restore confidence among players while reducing the risk of further setbacks during an already demanding campaign.
Julio Tous will now focus on maintaining player fitness on a day-to-day basis, while the club’s revamped rehabilitation strategy takes centre stage, highlighting the importance of communication and trust between medical teams and the first-team squad.
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