Alejandro Balde was absent from FC Barcelona’s group training session on Tuesday, with no indication of a new injury.
The 22-year-old left-back completed an individual programme at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper as part of the club’s careful management of player workloads during preseason.
Balde is the first player to implement the specific training plans introduced following the arrival of new fitness coach Benjamin Kugel.
Barcelona intends to use individual programmes throughout preseason depending on each player’s fatigue levels and accumulated workload. The objective is to allow Hansi Flick’s squad to train at high intensity without pushing players beyond their physical limits.
Balde’s absence from the main group on Tuesday was therefore a preventive measure, not related to any injury.
His absence opened an opportunity for highly rated 17-year-old Jordi Pesquer, who trained with the first team for the first time under Flick’s supervision.
Barcelona has another double training session scheduled for Wednesday, when it will become clearer whether Balde is ready to return to group training or will continue with his individual programme.
The club’s decision appears to be based on prevention rather than necessity. After previous seasons interrupted by injuries, managing Balde’s physical workload carefully is considered important to ensure he is in optimal condition when competitive matches start.
