A key Barcelona defender skips training as Hansi Flick takes a cautious approach to ensure the player’s readiness.
Following Barcelona’s hard-fought victory over Levante on Saturday night, the squad gathered for a light recovery session at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper on Sunday.
However, one notable absence raised eyebrows, as a key defensive player was rested due to slight general discomfort.
According to Diario Sport, this was a precautionary measure by coach Hansi Flick, who is keen to manage his squad carefully at the start of a demanding season, avoiding any unnecessary risks.
The absent player was Andreas Christensen, the Danish centre-back who made a brief but impactful appearance against Levante.
Coming on for the final 15 minutes in place of Ronald Araujo, Christensen showcased his composure, completing 20 of 22 passes, winning all three duels, and making a crucial clearance.
His performance was a promising sign after a challenging last season marred by recurring injuries.
Flick’s decision to rest him underscores a focus on ensuring the defender’s long-term fitness.
The recovery session itself was low-intensity, designed to help players recuperate after a grueling match.
With Barcelona facing a packed schedule across multiple competitions, Flick’s cautious approach highlights the importance of defensive depth.
Christensen’s role is particularly vital following Inigo Martinez’s departure, which has thinned the team’s backline options.
His brief stint against Levante demonstrated his ability to slot in seamlessly, offering calm authority in defense.
Flick’s strategy mirrors his broader philosophy of prioritizing player health to avoid setbacks, especially for players like Christensen, who are integral to the team’s ambitions.
With two days of rest before training resumes on Wednesday, Barcelona aims to have their defender fully prepared for upcoming challenges.
For now, the club’s message is clear: this absence is about precaution, not panic, as they carefully manage Christensen’s return to peak form for the bigger battles ahead in La Liga and beyond.
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