Alejandro Balde’s rapid ascent last season was one of the primary reasons Barcelona were able to solidify their position as league leaders throughout the campaign.
The left-back defensive diligence and ability to take ownership of the entire left flank allowed Barça to phase out the ageing Jordi Alba from the squad.
And based on his incredible progress, it was expected that he would rise even more in importance this season.
Fatefully, though, Balde’s campaign has turned out to be a pale shadow of his previous one, due to a season-ending injury he picked up against Athletic Club earlier this year.
Recovery processing smoothly
An injury to the tendon in his right hamstring compelled the Spaniard to undergo surgery, as the initial estimated time out for his injury was said to be four months.
Now, according to AS, Balde is nearing the end of his recuperation process, and if all goes according to plan, he will be with the squad on July 8, when the pre-season gets underway.
Balde in the final phase of his recovery. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
This would come as a great relief to the Catalan giants, especially given Joao Cancelo’s waning form in the left-back position over the past couple of weeks.
With big game losses, Barcelona’s lack of defensive assurance on the left flank has proven to be exploited by opponents, which was not always the biggest concern when Balde was on the pitch.
The report additionally argues that the youngster’s presence for the Euros in Germany this summer and the Olympic Games later down the line is completely ruled out, contradicting previous rumours of a potential comeback in the Euros.
Time will tell how Balde’s recovery process evolves, but given Barcelona’s troubles with rushing players back from injury, the club is likely to recommend maximum caution.
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-rising-star-in-the-final-stages-of-recovery-from-injury-could-be-ready-for-pre-season/
Author : Shahraiz Sajjad
Publish date : 2024-05-11 09:47:23
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