A top Barcelona defender has suffered a major injury setback, with the player expected to be sidelined for a significant period.
As the squad ramps up intensity at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper ahead of their upcoming summer tour, technical staff were required to adjust daily workloads after medical staff identified an ongoing physical concern.
While the coaching staff remains focused on building physical conditioning across the roster, medical precautions have placed one of the club’s prized full-backs on an individualized recovery program away from the main group.
The high-profile Spain international left-back working through this physical setback is Alejandro Balde.
According to reports from AS, the 22-year-old full-back has been undergoing specific daily therapy for pubalgia over the past week, preventing him from participating in high-intensity collective drills.
While the condition causes persistent groin strain, Barcelona’s medical staff do not view the situation with alarm, opting for a conservative management strategy rather than rushing the dynamic defender back into action before full recovery.
Balde’s recent injury history makes this careful management approach essential for Flick’s planning.
Having missed significant stretches of the previous campaign due to recurring hamstring setbacks, preserving the full-back’s long-term physical health is a top priority for the coaching staff.
To fill the temporary void in team tactical sessions, Flick called up 17-year-old academy talent Jordi Pesquer from the youth ranks to train alongside the senior squad.
Despite training away from the main group, internal optimism remains high regarding Balde’s recovery timeline.
The club expects him to travel with the team for their upcoming pre-season camp in England, with the possibility of featuring in friendly matches if his groin condition continues to show positive improvement.
Barcelona remain confident that Balde will be fully fit and available before their official La Liga season opener.
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